Suggestions wanted for my backyard setup.

[Madison320]

I had a few chickens several years ago when I lived in the country so I know a little about chickens, but not much. I moved back to the suburbs and I want to get a couple of hens. Here is my basic plan: I have a fairly small backyard (40' x 100') with a privacy fence in north alabama. I'm installing chicken wire around the base of the fence to make sure the hens can't escape. I just ordered this small hutch along with a nest box.

http://www.critter-cages.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=22&products_id=81

http://www.critter-cages.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=64&products_id=591

I plan on getting 2 Rhode Island Red hens and letting them free range in the back yard. I'm going to feed them layer pellets and oyster shell and provide a dog dish with water. I not sure what to use to clean the hutch, my previous hens had a problem with mites and I coated the coop with vegetable oil to get rid of them. I saw something called Orange Guard that looked like it might work better though.

That's a summary of my plan. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mahonri]

First off, Welcome to BYC, we are so glad you are here.

Looks about the right size for two chickens. It's a good starter "coop" as long as they are kept fenced in and free from predators, you'll be good to go.

God speed.

 

[Madison320]

What about internal parasites? Are you supposed to deworm chickens on a regular basis?