Choosing the Right Chickens
It is easy to get excited when you go to your local feed store and see the baby chicks in their warm enclosures. So fluffy and cute, how could you ever decide? As a beginner chicken keeper, you will need to know what your goals are for keeping chickens. Most people live in the suburbs and just want to start a small flock in their backyard for egg production and a fun pet for the kids. Let’s go over some breeds that would be perfect for a first-time check owner.
Orphingtons
Most commonly known as the Buff Orphington, these birds are of the most docile and friendly of the list. Perfect for families with kids who want a gentle chicken breed. They are great egg layers, laying around 150 – 200 light brown eggs per year. These ladies also have great cold and heat tolerance and would work well in most environments. Overall a must-have in your first flock.
Barred Rock
Barred Rock chickens, also known as Barred Plymouth Rocks, are a popular breed that originated in the United States. They are well-known for their distinctive black and white striped plumage and are a dual-purpose breed, meaning they are raised for both eggs and meat. Barred Rocks are friendly, docile birds that adapt well to various environments, including small backyard flocks and larger farm operations. They are reliable egg-layers, producing around 200-280 brown eggs per year, and are known for their hardiness, making them an excellent choice for beginner chicken keepers.
Easter Egger
Easter Egger chickens are a popular hybrid breed known for their unique ability to lay eggs in a variety of colors, including blue, green, pink, and even yellow. These charming birds are a cross between Araucana or Ameraucana chickens, which carry the gene for blue eggs, and other brown-egg-laying breeds. Easter Eggers are not a recognized breed by the American Poultry Association, but their friendly personalities and colorful eggs make them a favorite among backyard chicken enthusiasts. They are known for their hardiness, adaptability, and good egg production, laying around 250 to 300 eggs per year.
Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Red chickens are a famous American breed known for their excellent egg-laying abilities and hardiness. Rhode Island Reds are a dual-purpose breed, providing both eggs and meat, with hens laying around 250-280 large brown eggs annually. They are adaptable, friendly, and active birds that can thrive in both confined and free-range environments, making them a popular choice for backyard flocks and small farms. Their robust nature, good foraging skills, and consistent egg production make Rhode Island Reds an ideal choice for both novice and experienced chicken keepers.
Australorp
My personal flock will always have one of these wonderful girls. These hardy chickens are full of spunk and personality. If you are looking for a great pet chicken in addition to great egg laying potential, this is the bird for you. Both of the Australorps I have had followed me around, let me carry them around, hand feed them, and hang out near our guests and family. One of these chickens can lay between 250 – 300 light brown eggs per year with some breaking records at 365 eggs per year! A must-have chicken in my book.
Housing and Shelter
Feeding and Nutrition
Keeping chickens healthy requires a combination of proper nutrition, clean housing, regular health checks, and preventive care. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality chicken feed, along with occasional treats like fruits, vegetables, and mealworms, is crucial for their overall health. These Black Soldier Fly Larvae are a great protein snack for your backyard flock!
Adequate access to clean water is also essential. To start, you can start with a basic stainless steel bowl to fill each morning. As you get comfortable with the basics, expand into creating a automatic watering system for your chickens. I created mine using PVC pipe and chicken nipples. Check it out!
Kitchen scraps are an excellent way to add in additional nutrition to your chickens’ diet while also reducing your food waste. Just make sure it isn’t moldy or expired foods. Avoid stone fruit, avocado, chocolate, and onions. These foods are toxic to your feathered friends.
Health and Hygiene
Housing must be well-ventilated, dry, and free from pests. Regularly cleaning the coop and replacing bedding helps prevent disease transmission. Pine shavings or hemp bedding are great options to help keep the coop dry and clean. For your first flock, I would avoid the deep bedding method until you are comfortable with your coop and current cleaning schedule.
To maintain the birds’ well-being, perform routine health checks by inspecting their feathers, eyes, and feet for any signs of illness or injury. Implementing preventive measures like vaccinations and deworming schedules as recommended by a veterinarian or poultry expert can significantly reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the health and longevity of your feathered friends.
