Raising Backyard Chickens

Learn the ins and outs of raising backyard chickens, from choosing breeds to building coops and collecting fresh eggs.

If you’ve ever dreamed of collecting fresh eggs right from your backyard or are just curious about the benefits of raising backyard chickens, you’re in the right place!

Whether you’re a homesteader looking to increase self-sufficiency or simply want a new hobby with some feathery companions, raising backyard chickens can be a fun, rewarding, and surprisingly easy venture.

From choosing the best breeds to setting up a proper coop and gathering those beautiful farm-fresh eggs, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about raising backyard chickens.

Why Raise Backyard Chickens?

The idea of raising backyard chickens has become increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why.

Here are just a few benefits:

• Fresh eggs: There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh eggs, and when you raise your own chickens, you’ll have a steady supply of them. Plus, you’ll know exactly what your chickens are eating, which means you’ll have control over the quality of your eggs.

• Pest control: Chickens are natural foragers and will happily eat insects, weeds, and garden pests. Having chickens in your backyard can help reduce pests like ticks and grubs.

• Compost contribution: Chicken manure is an excellent addition to compost. It’s rich in nitrogen, which helps break down other compostable materials and improves the health of your soil.

• Great for the garden: Chickens love to scratch in the dirt, and while you’ll want to keep them out of your veggie garden, they’re great at tilling and aerating other areas of your yard.

• Family-friendly: Chickens are fun to watch and can even become pets with personalities. They’re great for kids to learn responsibility and the joys of caring for animals.

Choosing the Right Breed

Before diving into the world of raising backyard chickens, it’s important to choose the right breed for your needs.

Not all chickens are the same! Different breeds offer different benefits, so think about what’s most important to you—whether it’s egg production, temperament, or hardiness.

Here are a few common chicken breeds for backyard flocks:

• Rhode Island Reds: Known for their excellent egg production, Rhode Island Reds are hardy and easy to care for. They’re one of the most popular breeds for backyard chicken keepers.

• Orpingtons: Orpingtons are friendly, calm birds, making them great for families with children. They lay a good number of eggs and are also known for their fluffy feathers.

• Plymouth Rocks: These birds are another top pick for backyard chicken keepers. They’re good layers, easy to manage, and adaptable to a variety of climates.

• Leghorns: If egg production is your main goal, Leghorns are a great choice. They’re prolific layers of large, white eggs but can be a bit more high-strung than other breeds.    

• Silkies: For those looking fovr a breed with personality, Silkies are a favorite. They’re small, gentle, and have a unique fluffy appearance. While they don’t lay as many eggs, they’re often kept as pets or for their broodiness (they love hatching eggs).

Consider your climate as well—some breeds are better suited to cold weather, while others thrive in warmer temperatures.

Do a little research to find a breed that matches your environment and your backyard setup.

Building a Coop for Your Backyard Chickens

Once you’ve selected your chickens, the next step in raising backyard chickens is setting up a comfortable and safe coop for them.

Chickens need a space where they can sleep, lay eggs, and stay protected from predators.

Here are some important factors to consider when building or buying a chicken coop:

• Size: Chickens need enough space to move around comfortably. As a general rule, plan for about 2-3 square feet per chicken inside the coop and 8-10 square feet per chicken in an outdoor run.

• Ventilation: Good airflow is essential to keeping your chickens healthy. Make sure your coop has windows or vents that allow fresh air to circulate, especially in the hot summer months.

• Nesting boxes: Chickens need a quiet, private space to lay their eggs. Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 hens, and line it with straw or wood shavings to keep it cozy.

• Perches: Chickens like to roost off the ground at night, so be sure to install a few perches inside the coop. These can be simple wooden bars or sturdy branches placed a few feet off the ground.

• Predator protection: Unfortunately, chickens are a target for many predators, from raccoons to hawks. Make sure your coop is secure, with strong latches, hardware cloth around the run, and no gaps where predators could sneak in.

If you’re building your own coop, there are plenty of free plans online that can guide you through the process.

Or, if you’re short on time or DIY skills, you can purchase pre-built coops from a farm supply store or online.

Feeding Your Chickens

Proper nutrition is key when raising backyard chickens.

Chickens are relatively easy to feed, but it’s important to provide a balanced diet to ensure they’re healthy and laying well.

• Chicken feed: Most backyard chicken keepers feed their flock a commercial layer feed, which is formulated with the right balance of protein, calcium, and other nutrients to support egg production.

• Treats and scraps: Chickens love kitchen scraps, but it’s important to avoid feeding them anything harmful. Safe treats include fruits, vegetables, cooked grains, and even scrambled eggs (yes, really!). Avoid giving them foods like chocolate, onions, or anything moldy.

• Grit: Chickens don’t have teeth, so they need a supply of grit (small stones or coarse sand) to help them digest their food. Grit can be purchased at feed stores and should be available to your chickens at all times.

• Water: Fresh, clean water is essential. Chickens can dehydrate quickly, especially in hot weather, so make sure they always have access to water. In winter, consider a heated waterer to prevent freezing.

Daily Care and Maintenance

Raising backyard chickens requires some daily care, but once you get into a routine, it’s pretty simple.

Here’s what you’ll need to do on a daily or weekly basis:

• Feed and water: Check your chickens’ food and water supplies every day. Refill as needed and clean the waterers regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

• Collect eggs: Gather eggs daily to keep them fresh and encourage your hens to keep laying in the nesting boxes.

• Check the coop: Keep an eye on the coop’s cleanliness. Scoop out droppings regularly and replace any dirty bedding. A clean coop helps prevent pests and keeps your chickens healthy.

• Monitor your chickens: Spend some time observing your chickens each day. This will help you spot any health issues, such as lethargy, feather loss, or changes in behavior. Early intervention can prevent small problems from becoming big ones.

Raising Healthy, Happy Chickens

Like any pet or livestock, chickens can face health issues from time to time.  The good news is that most common problems are preventable with proper care.

Here are a few tips for keeping your flock healthy:

• Clean the coop regularly to prevent the buildup of ammonia from droppings, which can lead to respiratory problems.

• Provide dust baths for your chickens, as this helps them keep their feathers clean and free of parasites.

• Keep an eye out for predators. Even in the most secure coops, predators can sometimes find a way in. Regularly check the coop for any weaknesses.

• Watch for mites or lice, which can infest chickens and cause discomfort or illness. You can treat these issues with natural powders or commercial treatments if needed.

Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor

Raising backyard chickens is a fun and rewarding experience.

Not only do you get fresh eggs every day, but you also get the joy of watching your chickens grow and thrive.

With proper care, your chickens will provide you with eggs, entertainment, and maybe even a little company in the garden.

Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just starting out, raising backyard chickens can be a fantastic way to take a step toward self-sufficiency and enjoy the many benefits that come with keeping a small flock of hens in your backyard.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab some chickens, and enjoy all that this delightful venture has to offer!