What is the minimum number of chickens for a starter flock?

[farlo4]

I am new to chickens. I had five but I lost one unfortunately. I am just curious if I should buy another one or not? Space doesn't matter as I can build their pen to whatever it needs to be, and they will have some free range time during the day on our acre property. However I don't want to flood my yard with chickens. What would be the best number to have in order to keep them the healthiest? Again, have four at the moment. They are about three weeks old.

 

[PeckPeckChick]

4 is still a good number but 3 should be the minimum. Depending on if you want or will need more eggs you can choose whether you want another.

 

[newtoallthis]

I am new to all this also so take my response with a grain or salt and research it. You def won't be overwhelmed at 4 or 5 chickens on an acre of property. So the choice is really your's. Was the one that passed your main egg layer and that's what you bought her for? Was it your only rooster that you needed? Either way you could replace (or not) if you'd like. I lost one LF Buff Orpington on day five and replaced her with a 5 day old LF RIR and she has been a wonderful addition. As far as your property I don't think you need to be concerned until you have a bigger number of chickens. I'm sorry you lost one! Good Luck!

 

[bobbi-j]

If you're happy with 4, leave it at that. Sometimes it can be difficult integrating one new chicken into the flock, so you'll want to consider that before getting another one if that's what you choose to do. At 3 weeks, I don't know how fierce the pecking order is yet, but I'm pretty sure they have one. You are the only one who can decide how many chickens is good for your situation.