Want to get backyard chickens but have no clue where to start!

[jthomas307]

Hello! I moved to Alaska last summe. Most of my neighbors raise chickens. My husband and I would love to build a coop and get some of our own but have no clue where to start! We have been looking at different coop designs and have an idea of what we want to build. Should we get laying hens or meat chickens? How many should we start with? Any input is welcome! Thanks!!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, jthomas307, and

! Pleased to have you aboard! The types of chickens - totally up to you - meat chickens are less of a time commitment than layers, but why not go for both? You can learn the ropes of poultry keeping by reading through the Learning Center link below. Also, below is a handy dandy chart comparing the attributes of various breeds. Good luck to you!

Learning Center:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/

Chicken Chart:

http://www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html

And here you can find the AK link and maybe get some advice or tips from locals:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/26/where-am-i-where-are-you

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

I also recommend the Henderson chicken chart for research. As far as what types you get, first decide what you want them for, then go from there.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad to have you aboard!!