Backyard Chickens 101

  • Build an enclosure or run to protect from predators - 6 foot rolled wire with steel posts and attach with zip ties
  • Build a hinged gate
  • Build coop from kit purchased at Tractor Supply, Cal-Ranch or IFA $150 - $300 - Watch for sales
  • Used coops can be found on KSL.com
  • Buy a heat lamp for  chicks
  • Use pine shavings for bedding (Cedar will make chickens sick)
  • Buy baby chick water and food feeders
  • Best part  Pick some chicks 4-6  - IFA has great selection in the spring
  • Take inside home and watch the magic of fluffy yellow chicks turn into feathered pullets - About two weeks
  • As chicks  get feathers the heat lamp can be moved farther away until they don’t need it anymore
  • Move to outside once temperatures permit
  • Springtime chicks will lay by September or October - Mature hens will lay one egg almost everyday
  • It helps to place old golf balls in nesting boxes to encourage brooding and laying - Otherwise a daily Easter  egg hunt may ensue 
  • During winter some use heat lamp others don’t so hens develop warm downy feathers
  • A heated dog bowl is a must for freezing temperatures
  • Remember the best predator protection is to shut hens in the coop every night and let them out in the morning

 

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