Raising Chickens for Beginners
Chickens have always been a big part of our homestead, and over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to care for them. If you’re looking for advice on raising chickens for beginners, this guide is packed with everything I’ve picked up over the last 20 years. From the highs and lows to a few surprising tips, I’ll share a straightforward plan to help you get started.
Raising chickens can be simple and rewarding when you know how to keep them healthy and strong from day one.
When I first got chickens, I was brand new to homesteading and didn’t know much about raising hens. I decided on Leghorns for my first flock, thinking I had picked a great breed. They’re fantastic egg layers, and all I cared about at the time was having plenty of eggs. What I didn’t realize, though, is that Leghorns are not only skittish but also expert escape artists. They can fly out of almost any enclosed run. Even with our 8-foot-high walls, I’d constantly find hens wandering where they weren’t supposed to be.
If you’re just starting out with raising hens, take some time to choose a breed of chicken that fits your family’s needs. You might want a heavier bird that’s easier to keep contained or one that’s an egg-laying superstar. The right choice will make all the difference as you get started.
Raising Chickens for Beginners
Whether you’re dreaming of fresh eggs that you can enjoy every day, making a connection to the homesteading lifestyle, or just some unique backyard companionship and entertainment, chickens can be a wonderful addition to your life.
This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through each step, with practical tips to make your chicken-raising experience enjoyable and rewarding.
Before You Begin
Before you get started, take a moment to ask yourself a few important questions to make sure you’re fully prepared. Doing this now can save you some of the headaches I had when I first started.
Am I Able to Raise Chickens Where I Live?
Before you start picking out your chickens, check the local rules in your area. Many cities and towns have ordinances for backyard chickens that might limit the number you can keep, prevent roosters, or require specific coop sizes or designs.
If you live in a community with a homeowners’ association, make sure chickens are allowed there, too. A quick check with your local area or HOA can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Do You Have Room for a Coop?
Space matters when it comes to chickens; this includes the coop and the enclosed outside run area. A good rule of thumb is at least 3-4 square feet of coop space per chicken, plus an additional 8-10 square feet in their outdoor run.
If you don’t have much room in your yard, consider getting a smaller flock so everyone stays comfortable and happy. Even if you’re short on space, there are some ingenious coop designs out there, like portable chicken tractors, that make it easy to raise chickens in smaller areas.
What is Your Budget?
Knowing the cost of raising chickens will help you to be better prepared from the start. You’ll need to budget for things like buying or building a coop, setting it up with all the essentials, and getting basic supplies for feeding and watering.
Starting out with a small flock can run you a few hundred dollars, but here’s the good news: once your coop is built, it’ll last a long time. Ours has held up for over 15 years and is still going strong!
Keep in mind, though, there are ongoing costs too, like feed, fresh bedding, and any health-related expenses for your flock.
How Many Chickens Should I Get?
Deciding how many chickens to start with comes down to how many eggs you’d like. Chickens usually start laying eggs around 6 months old, and most breeds lay about 4-5 eggs a week, though some can lay even more.
For a small family, 3-5 hens is a great starting point. It’s an easy number to manage, and you’ll still enjoy a steady supply of fresh eggs without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, since chickens are social creatures, having at least three ensures they’ll have some feathered friends to keep them company.
What is the Best Breed of Chicken to Start With?
Every chicken breed comes with its own set of perks and quirks, so a little research can help you find the ideal match for your needs. Some breeds are laid-back and friendly, while others can be more independent or even a bit high-spirited.
Popular breeds for beginners include Buff Orpingtons, Rhode Island Reds, and Australorps. These breeds are hardy, easy to manage, and great egg layers. If you’re after colorful eggs, Ameraucanas or Easter Eggers are fun options.
Think about what matters most to you, whether it’s temperament, egg production, or something else, and go from there.
Raising Baby Chicks
Baby chicks are adorable but require special care. Here is a quick overview of what to have and expect. You can get our complete list of What You need for Baby Chicks to ensure you have everything you need.
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You’ll need a brooder setup, which includes a box or container, a heat lamp to keep them warm (around 95°F for the first week, reducing by 5°F weekly), and bedding like pine shavings. Make sure the water and food dishes are shallow, so chicks don’t accidentally drown. For feed, you will want to purchase chick starter feed, which is specifically formulated for their growth.
Chicks grow quickly, so you’ll need to transition them into a larger space in just a few weeks. Watching them grow and get their feathers is one of the most exciting parts of raising chickens and a great learning lesson for kids of all ages.
Coop, Shelter, and Space Needs
Creating a chicken coop that checks all the right boxes is the key to a spacious and safe home for your flock. With careful planning now as a new chicken owner, you can set up a space that keeps your chickens happy and thriving for years to come.
Space – Aim for about 3-4 square feet of coop space per chicken, along with 8-10 square feet per bird in their outdoor run. This gives everyone room to roam while staying comfortable, reducing the stress of overcrowding in the flock.
Protection – Your main job as a chicken owner is keeping your flock safe. A secure, predator-proof coop and run are absolute must-haves to keep everyone protected, especially if roosters are not an option.
Ventilation – Whether you’re building your own or buying a coop, make sure it has good airflow to keep the air fresh inside. Just be careful to avoid drafts, especially in colder conditions.
Feeder and Waterer – Set up an easy-to-access feeder and waterer to keep your chickens fed and hydrated. Invest in continuous setups to ensure there is plenty of food and water for the entire flock.
Key Components – Make sure to include the must-haves, like nesting boxes for your hens to lay their eggs (one box for every 3-4 hens) and roosting perches where they can cozy up for the night (8-10 inches for each hen).
Benefits of Letting Chickens Free-Range
Free-ranging is all about letting your chickens explore and forage on their own during the day. Even just a couple of hours can make a big difference. They’ll snack on bugs, weeds, and even kitchen leftovers, which can help cut down your feed bill. Plus, it gives them a healthier, more natural way of life.
That said, free-ranging your flock does come with risks. Attacks from predators and the chance of your flock wandering off can be concerns. If that’s a worry, try supervised free-ranging, train your chickens to come when called, or use a movable chicken tractor that keeps them safe while still giving them fresh ground to explore.
Get more tips on free-ranging your flock safely.
- How to Free Range Chickens
- How to Protect Free Range Chickens
- How to Free Range Chickens in the Winter
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Feeding Chickens
As a new chicken owner, what you feed your flock plays a big role in keeping them healthy and ensuring those eggs taste amazing.
- Chicks – Baby chicks need starter feed, which is high in protein to support their rapid growth. Look for chick starter crumbles with around 18-20% protein, and make sure it’s labeled “medicated” or “non-medicated” based on your needs.
- Pullets – Once chicks hit about 6-8 weeks, they transition to a grower or pullet feed. This has slightly less protein (around 16-18%) to keep up with their development without being too much. They’ll typically stay on this feed until they’re about 16-18 weeks old.
- Egg Layers – When your pullets start laying, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This feed is lower in protein but packed with calcium, which is critical for strong eggshells. You can also offer crushed oyster shells on the side for an extra calcium boost.
- Treats – Chickens love kitchen scraps like vegetable peels, fruit, or stale bread, but avoid onions, garlic, and anything too salty or sugary. For chicken treats, you can also give mealworms or cracked corn, just be sure to give them in moderation.
- Water – Always have fresh, clean water available, especially during hot weather when dehydration is a real danger.
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Get our guide on What to Feed Chickens from Chick to Hen for a complete breakdown.
Health & Wellness
Chickens are pretty tough, but they still need a little care to stay healthy. One of the best things you can do is keep their coop clean. A clean home can prevent issues like mites and respiratory problems. Make sure they always have access to grit for digestion and oyster shells for calcium to keep their eggshells nice and strong.
Keep an eye on how your chickens are acting. If a hen seems droopy, lacks energy, or isn’t eating, it could be a sign she’s not feeling well and needs some extra attention.
It’s also smart to find a vet who’s familiar with chickens, just in case. While not every vet treats poultry, many are happy to offer advice over the phone, which can be super helpful if you have a sick hen on your hands.
Additional Resources for the Coop and Flock
Adding a few extras to your setup can make a big difference in keeping your flock healthy, happy, and entertained. While these aren’t absolute must-haves for a new chicken owner, each one offers unique benefits that your chickens will appreciate.
- Dust Bath – A dust bath is great for a chicken’s health and well-being. It’s their way of keeping feathers clean, skin healthy, and pests like mites at bay. To set one up, provide a shallow area filled with loose soil, sand, or wood ash. If there isn’t a natural spot available, you can make one in a container or a designated area in their coop or run.
- Fun Feeders – Liven up mealtime with fun feeders. These can include treat balls that release snacks slowly, a DIY treat feeder, or hanging vegetables like cabbage heads. Not only do these feeders provide enrichment by encouraging natural foraging behavior, but they also help prevent boredom and keep your flock actively engaged.
- Toys – Chickens love a little entertainment. Adding items like swings, mirrors, or small perches can keep them curious and active. These simple additions reduce stress and contribute to a healthier, happier flock overall.
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Seasonal Care
Your chickens’ needs shift with the seasons, so it’s important to adjust their care to keep them comfortable year-round.
- Winter Care – When the cold sets in, make sure their coop is cozy but well-ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. Add extra bedding, like straw, to help them stay warm, and check their water frequently to keep it from freezing. Also, you will want to spot clean the coop regularly to keep it dry. While chickens are surprisingly tough in the cold (yes, even with snow!), these steps will make winter much easier for your flock.
- Summer Care – Hot weather is all about keeping your flock cool and hydrated. Make sure they’ve got plenty of shade and fresh water throughout the day. A fun way to help them beat the heat is by offering frozen treats, like berries or veggies in ice blocks. It’s a simple way to keep them cool and happy even on the hottest days.
Daily Chore Schedule
Taking care of chickens is easy once you get into a routine. Here’s a sample daily chicken chore schedule for beginners:
- Morning
- Open the coop to the outside run and check on your flock.
- Dump out old water and refill with fresh.
- Add more food to the feeder if needed.
- Collect any early eggs.
- Spot clean the coop if needed. If you use scrape boards, clean them off in your compost area.
- Afternoon
- Ensure they have access to shade and enough water (especially on hot days).
- Free-range or provide activities like a hanging treat feeder if possible.
- Check nesting boxes. Add more bedding if needed.
- Evening
- Collect any remaining eggs.
- Check the water and fill if needed.
- Lock the coop to keep predators out overnight.
Raising chickens for beginners is such a fun and rewarding way to try out a homesteading lifestyle. They bring more than just fresh eggs to the table; you’ll get plenty of laughs and a little taste of farm life right in your own backyard.
With the right setup, choosing the best breeds for your needs, and giving your flock some TLC from day one, you’ll be well on your way to building a happy, thriving backyard flock.
