Starting up a backyard flock is simple.
When it comes to raising chickens, the best knowledge comes from doing. Like parenting or training a puppy, you’ll figure out what does – and doesn’t – work for you. Depending on where you live, the answers to all things chicken will vary. There are no comprehensive books or websites that have all the answers.
Things to consider:
- Your Climate: Different breeds may tolerate weather very differently.
- Your Municipality: Some places are relatively lax, while others have strict regulations.
- Your Budget: We got our whole setup rolling for about $250. Other folks I know have spent thousands. It’s really up to you to decide how much you care to spend to meet your aesthetic desires.
- Your Neighbors: Are you in an area where folks are likely to complain about your birds? Have a plan in place in case that happens.
The Chicken Chick
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to see chicken pictures and get beginner tips, The Chicken Chick is for you! Her coop setups are adorable, and she’s constantly sharing links and tips and tricks for chicken keepers of all experience levels.
USDA-APHIS
For more technical information, USDA has a comprehensive list of crucial health and biosecurity practices for new owners. There are links to tons of great info about how to take care of a small flock of poultry.
Facebook Groups
While Facebook groups certainly have their downsides, I did learn quite a bit about chickens simply by joining some chicken groups well before I purchased my birds. This link is to a national group, but I highly recommend seeking out or creating a local group for your area.
Just don’t forget!
One of the best ways to learn about chickens is to find experienced chicken keepers in your area. They’ll be knowledgeable about the breeds that do well in your area, where to find chicks and all sorts of other useful tips.
Last but certainly not least.
With chicken keeping comes a certain level of interaction in some, shall I say, less than progressive circles. Most chicken owners around here either exist on the far ends of the political spectrum, where anti-government, anti-vaccine conspiracy abounds. Exercise caution in feed stores and when coordinating sales or trades. We’ve had a few interesting moments!
