Keeping chickens can be a fantastic backyard project. They don't require very much space, their care and feeding isn't complicated, and who doesn't love farm-fresh eggs? But before you commit to a backyard flock, here are a few things to keep in mind:
* Many neighborhoods and municipalities regulate chicken ownership. Backyard flocks are usually allowed, but roosters are often prohibited and some areas may limit the number of hens you can own. Check your HOA's rules and local ordinances before buying any chicks.
* Chickens can't be left alone for days at a time. They need to be given fresh water and mash each day, checked for injuries and illness, and safely locked in their nesting coop each night. If you travel a lot, a backyard coop might have to wait until you stay in one place.
* There are many breeds of chicken with different purposes and personalities. Do your research before you order chicks and don't select them on appearance alone. Buff Orpingtons, Easter Eggers, and Cochins are all docile and beginner-friendly breeds that get along with humans and other birds and reliably produce eggs. More aggressive and dominant breeds, like the Wyandotte, Brahma, and Rhode Island Red, can be challenging for first-time owners.
* An enclosed run is crucial to keep your chickens safe from predators. Welded wire fencing, available in half or quarter-inch sizes, is the toughest and safest material for the outside of your enclosed run. Skip the chicken wire — most predators can get through it.
