There are a number of things that I would have loved to have known before purchasing chicks. I read everything that I could get my hands on, spoke with people with experience, and researched for weeks before bringing home the little fuzzes! -didn't know that bantams were not just small versions of big birds. They are habitually broody - and all summer at that! If one resides in a very hot climate, this means hens are always indoors in crates whilst they "sit on invisible eggs" in order to keep them cool and from expiring due to heat stroke... Also, I was clueless to the damage a small flock could inflict upon a lawn and garden. Most articles highlight the benefits (which are accurate) such as fertilizer for the garden and pest control. Rarely do articles state that an area will be promptly stripped if a flock is left on it for anything other than brief/limited time periods. Time. Time is the biggest factor/requirement overlooked. I do suppose that time spent in cleaning, supervising whilst ranging, and other caretaking activities depends largely upon personal preference. For our household, about two hours per day are consumed with "chicken care". We do, however, choose to scoop, sweep, and clean the coop daily; till the run every other day or so. Finally, roosters crow. -not just at dawn, but ALL day long. -had two precious bantam roosters that we made special arrangements for each early morning (indoors). After about a month worth of morning crowing, the little guys began their strutting about and incessant crowing throughout all hours of the day. Unfortunately, they had to be rehomed to a small farm setting which could accommodate their crowing. Fortunately, this worked out well. Our neighbors were happy. The new farm (in need of a few roos) was happy. Purchasing straight run chicks should be done with caution. If roos aren't permitted in an area, don't buy straight run chicks. Period. A year and a half into chicken ownership, our family is happy. It's a large commitment, but very rewarding.
Joining BYC was the best thing I did before I got mine! My coop is big enough but it is not complete due to weather-still need to lay linoleum and needs one more coat of stain. As of right now I guess my regret would be not waiting until the end of summer to get my little loves. I am constantly checking on them and bringing them frozen veggies because the temperatures are still at 110 degrees. Every question I have ever had is answered by experienced people on BYC. THANK YOU GUYS FOR MAKING THIS EASIER!!!!!
