Raising Chicks 101: Raising Chickens for Beginners

Raising chickens is not only exciting, but it also comes with many benefits. From fresh and tastier eggs to family fun and garden companions, chickens can add a lot to your backyard. However, before you start raising chickens, there are a few things you need to consider. In this beginner's guide to raising chickens, we will cover the basics of what you need to know to get started.

Why Should You Raise Chickens?

There are many reasons to raise chickens, but one of the most appealing is the fresh and tasty eggs they provide. Chickens in the backyard lay eggs that are much fresher and flavorful than the ones found in stores. Moreover, they are great for baking and cooking.

Chickens are low maintenance and can entertain themselves throughout the day. They love to eat grass, worms, and beetles, making them great for pest control in your garden.

Things to Consider Before Getting Chickens

Before you get chickens, you must consider local town ordinances which allow keeping chickens in your area or not. Also, ensure you check the number of chicks you can keep at once.

Make sure you have enough space for your henhouse or coop with the appropriate facility to accommodate them. Ensure you have a feeder and water containers, roosting and a nesting box for every three hens.

A right coop should be spacious enough so that you can stand in it while gathering eggs or cleaning the manure.

Predator control is another thing you must consider before keeping chickens. The coop must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all kinds of predators.

Get Your Chicks

Once you have everything planned out, it's time to get your chicks! When choosing your chicks, you can opt for mail-order chicks or buy them from one of our local agricultural supply stores. Make sure you get a breed that suits your needs.

Chickens should be housed in a brooder box or a warm room once you bring them home. You will need to keep them at 95 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week, after which you can lower the temperature by five degrees per week.

Keep in mind that chicks require clean water, nutritious feed, proper temperature, and a clean living environment to thrive.

Feeding and Caring for Your Chicks

Clean drinking water is crucial for your chicks' health and safety. Newly hatched chicks need a 20% protein chick starter feed for the first eight weeks, followed by a 16% protein layer feed after that.

Chicks require medical attention once they're sick as they are susceptible to illness. You must be aware of common chicken illnesses and how to prevent and treat them. For example, you can vaccinate your chicks for Marek's disease.

In conclusion, raising chickens can be an excellent addition to your backyard, and with the right preparations, it can be quite straightforward. Consider local ordinances, predator control, and adequate facilities when planning to keep chickens. Then, make sure you get a breed that suits your needs, and provide them with clean water, nutritious feeding, and care. We hope this beginner's guide to raising chickens had everything to get you started!