Raising Chickens: Getting Started & What They Don't Tell You
CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHICKEN BREED
The first step in raising chickens is to choose the right breed. Different breeds have different features, so it’s important to do your research and choose the kind that best meets your needs. Some breeds are best for egg production, while others are great for meat production.
GET THE ESSENTIAL CHICKEN KEEPING SUPPLIES
After you have decided on the proper breed, you'll need to gather the necessary supplies. This includes a coop, feeders, waterers, and bedding. You’ll also need to get a heat lamp if you live in a cold climate.
PREPARE THE COOP
Once you have gathered the supplies, you’ll need to get the coop ready. This includes making sure it’s secure from predators, with adequate ventilation, and comfortable for your chickens. Perches and swings are great additions to your coop too. It gives chickens a place to roost off the floor, keep your flock busy, and entertained for hours.
FEED AND WATER
This is a daily basic need for your chickens. Once the coop is ready, you’ll need to provide your chickens with food and water. Make sure to provide a balanced diet and access to fresh water at all times.
MONITOR HEALTH
It’s important to keep track your chickens’ health. Look for signs of illness or injury and take action if necessary.
CONCLUSION
These are the basics of raising chickens. But there are some things they do not tell you. Chickens, for example, may be quite noisy, so be prepared for that. You should also prepare for the possibility of a predator, so make sure your coop is secure. Finally, chickens can be dirty, so you'll need to clean up after them on a regular basis.
Raising chickens can be a rewarding experience but comes with numerous challenges. Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to having a successful flock.