Thinking About Getting Chickens?
by Michelle
Published January 14, 2025
Having chickens is such a rewarding experience. They provide eggs, meat, and entertainment. Their droppings also make great fertilizer or compost for the garden too! Their daily antics include roaming the yard searching for bugs and following you around waiting for treats. However, chickens are not an impulse purchase. There are many things to consider or prepare for before you invest in them.
Preparing for Your Chickens
Brooding Basics
If you plan to start with chicks, where will you brood them? Brooding is the initial stage when your chicks arrive. You need to make sure the brooder is set up at least 24 hours in advance, with the temperature holding steady at 95 degrees Fahrenheit and in a draft-free location.
How Many Chickens Should You Get?
Are you looking to sell eggs, or is it just for family use? It is usually recommended to have 1-2 chickens per household member, depending on how many eggs your family eats in a week.
Space Requirements
How many birds can you house? It is recommended to provide 2-3 square feet per bird as a minimum in the coop. If including a chicken run, it should have at least 8-10 square feet per bird. However, the more space you provide, the happier your chickens will be as foraging for bugs is what they like to do!
Feed Options
What type of feed should I use? There are so many options for medicated, non-medicated, soy-free, organic and non-GMO. You can review the feed options below to select what fits your needs.
What do I feed my chickens by age? Feed guidelines will vary by age and poultry type. You can check those out here. Feed will vary by poultry type and age, depending on minerals, vitamins, and protein percentage needed.
Moving Your Chickens Outdoors
Once they are fully feathered and ready to move outside, what shelter do you have to accommodate them? Is it predator-proof? The coop does not need to be anything fancy – just a roof and four walls with access to the outdoors, with either a chicken run or free-ranging space.
Budgeting for Your Flock
The initial startup cost can be alarming, between brooding, feed/water supplies, and housing. Seasonal costs can vary as they will spend more time in the coop during cold weather requiring more feed. Additional protein sources are needed to help them keep warm. Feed and bedding will be consistent purchases as you keep your flock.
To save on costs, be sure to scout out the prices of each at locations near you.
We have some Helpful Trackers on our helpdesk that may help you make a budget.
If you are handy or into DIY, there are ways to make a homemade feeder or waterer using items you might have lying around. Check out some of our DIY projects at the link below.
Keeping your own flock can be a gratifying experience. Be sure to check out our Meyer Hatchery Blog, Helpdesk, or Social Channels for more information as you begin your poultry journey!
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Standard vs Bantam Chicken Breeds
Trying to decide between bantam and standard-sized chickens? While both make wonderful additions to a flock, they differ in size, space requirements, hardiness, egg production, and cost. This blog post breaks down the key differences to help you choose the best breed type for your space, climate, and poultry goals.
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