In recent years, the practice of keeping backyard chickens has seen a significant rise across the Western world.
In the United Kingdom, for example, estimates suggest there are approximately five million pet chickens, positioning them as the third most popular pet, even more than rabbits and organizations like the British Hen Welfare Trust rehome over 60,000 ex-commercial hens annually.
Similarly, in the United States, backyard chicken ownership has grown significantly. The American Pet Products Association reported that between 2018 and 2020, ownership increased from 8% to 13% of households, with millennials and Generation Z leading this trend.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the interest in backyard poultry as individuals increased their interest towards self-sufficiency and a reliable food source during uncertain times.
Rising egg prices and concerns over food security have also pushed more people to consider raising their own chickens.
This growing enthusiasm, however, can lead to rushed decisions from people who may not have the knowledge and skills to raise and care for chickens. A good understanding is needed in non-commercial chicken care to ensure optimal welfare in domestic settings.
Can I have a Chicken In My Backyard?
Yes, you can keep chickens in your backyard. However, there are several important considerations and legal requirements to be aware of:
Registration Requirements: In many countries, you will need to register your poultry. In the UK, for example, all poultry keepers are required to register their birds with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
Local Regulations: While national laws permit the keeping of chickens, local council by-laws or housing agreements may have specific restrictions.
Animal Welfare: You are legally responsible for ensuring the welfare of your chickens. This includes providing appropriate housing, nutrition, and medical care.
Health and Safety Considerations: Measurements may be in place to minimize the risk of spreading disease. The UK government, for example, may implement measures to protect against bird flu, which can affect backyard flocks. Stay informed about any such measures to ensure the health of your chickens and compliance with regulations.
Practical Considerations: Ensure you have adequate space for a chicken coop and run and that you can provide a safe and clean environment for the birds.
Also, you may want to consider potential impacts on neighbours, such as noise or odours, and address any concerns proactively.
Photo By: Alexa
Benefits of Raising Chickens at Home
Raising backyard chickens offers several benefits, including:
- Fresh Eggs: Keeping chickens allows you to have a direct source of fresh eggs, reducing reliance on store-bought options and reassuring the animal’s health and welfare are at a high standard.
- Natural Pest Control: Chickens forage for insects; this helps maintain the level of pests like ticks and mosquitoes in your yard low.
- Educational Opportunities: Chickens require attention and care. Caring for chickens teaches responsibility and offers insights into animal behaviour and biology.
- Soil Fertilization: Chicken manure can be used to fertilize soil with the opportunity to enrich your garden free of charge. However, health considerations and knowledge of risks and benefits are needed.
- Waste Reduction: Chickens consume kitchen scraps, which is a healthy and very effective way to top up chicken feeds and organic food, decreasing household waste.
- Therapeutic Benefits: Interacting with chickens can reduce stress and promote well-being.
Planning and Preparation
One of the most important aspects of preparing for chicken keeping is ensuring adequate space is available.
Chickens require enough space to move around, forage, and express natural behaviours.
Chickens should have access to a chicken run or a backyard area where they can roam safely, as overcrowding can lead to stress and health issues. A general guideline is that each chicken needs at least 2-3 square feet of indoor space in the coop and 8-10 square feet of outdoor space in the run. The more space you can provide, the better the welfare of the chickens.
Coop and Run Setup
The design of the chicken coop is a crucial part of assessing space. The chicken coop should be well-ventilated, dry, and secure from predators.
The run should be enclosed with a strong fence to protect chickens from predators like foxes or dogs. A suitable roof or cover is also recommended to protect chickens from birds of prey or harsh weather.
Safety and Comfort
One aspect to consider of chickens is that they must establish a pecking order. Adequate space allows chickens to establish their order and avoid conflicts, and on the other hand, overcrowding can lead to stress and aggressive behaviour.
The suitability of your backyard should also account for access to shelter and shade, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Chickens also need a dry area to sleep and nest.
Compatibility with the Environment
You should assess whether your backyard can handle the impact of chicken care, such as manure management and potential noise issues (especially if you have roosters). Some regions may legally require space buffers to minimize conflicts with neighbours.
You must consider the type of terrain of your backyard; a flat, well-drained area is ideal for setting up a chicken coop and run. Poorly drained areas can lead to health problems for chickens, such as foot infections.
Photo By: F. Muhammad
Features of a Safe and Comfortable Chicken Coop
- Adequate Space: The coop should provide enough room for your chickens to move around. A general rule is 2-3 square feet per chicken inside the coop and 8-10 square feet per chicken in the run.
- Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential to prevent the buildup of moisture and ammonia, which can harm the chickens’ health. The coop should have sufficient windows, vents, or mesh panels for ventilation while protecting against drafts.
- Protection from Predators: The coop should be secure with strong wire mesh to prevent predators like raccoons, foxes, and dogs from gaining access. Doors should be lockable, and any openings should be small enough to keep out rodents.
- Nesting Boxes: Chickens need a quiet and comfortable place to lay their eggs. Provide 1 nesting box for every 3-4 hens. Line the boxes with straw, hay, or wood shavings to keep them clean and comfortable.
- Roosting Bars: Chickens prefer to sleep off the ground, so installing roosting bars will keep them comfortable at night. To prevent contamination, the roosting bars should be placed high enough for the chickens to perch but not too close to the nesting boxes.
- Proper Flooring: The flooring should be easy to clean and absorb waste. Use materials like wood shavings, straw, or sand, which can be replaced regularly to maintain hygiene.
- Insulation and Shelter: In colder climates, ensure the coop is insulated to retain warmth during the winter months. In hot climates, the coop should have proper shade and ventilation to keep the chickens cool.
Small Backyard Chicken Coop
For small backyards, a compact chicken coop can still meet the needs of your chickens if designed efficiently. Key considerations include:
- Vertical Space: Utilize vertical space with stacked nesting boxes or roosting bars to maximize available floor space.
- Modular Design: Consider a modular or foldable design for easy expansion if you decide to increase the flock in the future.
- Access to the Run: Make sure there’s easy access to the chicken run for the chickens and for regular cleaning.
DIY Backyard Chicken Simple Pallet Coop
Building a chicken coop with pallets is an excellent way to recycle materials while saving money. Here’s how you can build a simple pallet coop:
- Gather Materials: Collect pallets, wire mesh, screws, and roofing materials like corrugated plastic or tin. You may also need some wood planks for the flooring and for extra stability.
- Construct the Frame: Use the pallets as the base structure of your coop. Place them upright to form the walls and the roof supports, attaching them securely with screws.
- Create Nesting Boxes and Roosting Bars: Use additional pallet slats to create nesting boxes and attach them to the walls. You can also create roosting bars by using shorter pallet slats positioned horizontally.
- Install Ventilation and Windows: Cut small openings or use mesh to create windows for ventilation. This will help ensure airflow and prevent humidity buildup.
- Protect Against Weather: Use corrugated plastic or other waterproof materials to cover the roof. Ensure the coop is elevated slightly off the ground to prevent water from entering during rainy weather.
Backyard Chicken Run Ideas
The chicken run is just as important as the coop in providing a safe and comfortable outdoor environment for chickens. Here are some ideas for your chicken run:
- Secure Fencing: Use sturdy wire mesh (hardware cloth) with small holes to prevent predators from entering. Bury the fencing a few inches underground to prevent digging.
- Covered Run: A covered chicken run is a great option for protecting chickens from aerial predators and extreme weather. Consider using a tarp or corrugated plastic for the roof.
- Dust Bath Area: Chickens love to take dust baths to keep their feathers clean and free of parasites. Provide a dedicated space in the run with a mixture of sand, dirt, and ashes.
- Natural Foraging Space: Allow chickens to forage by planting grass or herbs like clover, dandelions, or oregano. These can provide additional nutrition and enrichment for your chickens.
- Moveable Chicken Run (Chicken Tractor): For those with limited space or a desire to rotate the chickens around the yard, a movable run, also known as a “chicken tractor,” allows chickens to forage in different areas while keeping them contained and safe.
- Shaded Areas: Make sure part of the chicken run has shade, especially in warmer climates.
Photo By: Javier Garcia
Feeding and Nutrition at Different Life Stages
Chickens, like any other livestock, have specific nutritional requirements that vary depending on their age, breed, and purpose (e.g., egg-laying or meat production).
- Chicks (0-8 Weeks)
- Dietary Requirements: Newly hatched chicks require starter feed, which is specifically formulated for their early growth. This feed typically contains about 18-20% protein, which supports muscle and feather development.
- Water: Chicks tend to drink more water than adults, and dehydration can stunt their growth and development.
- Treatments: At this stage, chicks should be kept warm with supplemental heat and kept in a clean, safe environment to prevent disease.
- Pullets (8-20 Weeks)
- Dietary Requirements: As pullets grow, their protein requirements decrease slightly, but they still need a balanced diet to support the development of their bones and organs. The diet should consist of grower feed with 16-18% protein.
- Water: Constant access to fresh water remains crucial during this stage.
- Calcium Supplementation: During this stage, pullets do not yet need high levels of calcium, as their bodies are still growing and not yet producing eggs. Avoid introducing calcium-rich layers’ feed too early.
- Layer Hens (20 Weeks and Beyond)
- Dietary Requirements: Once hens start laying eggs, they require a layer feed that contains about 16-18% protein and calcium (around 3-4% of their diet) to support egg production and shell health. A lack of calcium can lead to soft shells or even egg-laying problems.
- Water: Layer hens need consistent access to water to keep hydrated for optimal egg production.
- Additional Supplements: You can provide additional oyster shells or calcium carbonate as a supplement to ensure they meet their calcium needs, especially during periods of high egg production.
- Older Hens (Over 2 Years)
- Dietary Requirements: As hens age, their egg production typically decreases. At this stage, a maintenance feed (lower protein, lower calcium) is often appropriate to avoid obesity and excessive strain on their systems.
- Water: Hydration is still important, but be mindful that older hens may drink more to compensate for lower egg production and changing nutritional needs.
- Treatments: Older hens may benefit from additional vitamins or electrolyte solutions if they are experiencing any health issues related to ageing.
Health and Veterinary Care
Healthy chickens require more than just proper feed; they also need veterinary care and preventative treatment to maintain their well-being.
Parasite Control
Chickens are susceptible to worms and other internal parasites. Regular monitoring of their faeces with tests helps in understanding if deworming treatments should be performed.
Chickens can also get external parasites such as lice, mites, and fleas. These parasites can cause significant stress and harm to chickens. Poultry dust baths, which contain diatomaceous earth or poultry dusting powders, are natural ways to keep external parasites in check. Regular cleaning of the coop and run is also a good husbandry procedure.
Vaccination and Disease Prevention
Vaccinations are an essential part of ensuring your chickens remain healthy and that eggs are safe for human consumption.
Depending on your region and local disease risks, vaccines for Marek’s Disease, Newcastle Disease, and Fowl Pox may be recommended.
Regular health checks are important. Watch for signs of illness, such as changes in eating behaviour, droppings, or feather loss. Quarantine new birds to prevent the introduction of disease to your flock.
Common Diseases and Preventive Measures
- Marek’s Disease
- Overview: Marek’s disease is a viral infection that affects chickens’ nervous systems, causing paralysis, tumours, and other symptoms. It is highly contagious and can lead to death.
- Preventive Measure: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Marek’s disease. Most chicks are vaccinated at hatcheries, but it’s important to verify this. If you raise your own chicks, consider vaccinating them yourself or through your veterinarian.
- Newcastle Disease
- Overview: Newcastle disease is a viral infection that can affect chickens’ respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, diarrhoea, and paralysis.
- Preventive Measure: Vaccination is recommended, especially if you live in an area where the disease is prevalent. Practice good biosecurity by limiting contact between your chickens and other birds.
- Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
- Overview: Avian influenza is a highly contagious virus that can affect domestic and wild birds. It can cause sudden death, respiratory problems, and swelling.
- Preventive Measure: Maintaining biosecurity practices is essential. This includes keeping your chickens away from wild birds, especially in areas where avian flu outbreaks have been reported. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting the coop and equipment can help prevent the spread of the virus.
- Coccidiosis
- Overview: Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa that affect the digestive tract. It leads to symptoms like bloody diarrhoea, lethargy, and poor growth.
- Preventive Measure: To prevent coccidiosis, ensure clean living conditions and manage wet environments. Using a coccidiostat in feed (especially for chicks) can prevent outbreaks. Providing fresh bedding and limiting overcrowding is also crucial.
- Bumblefoot
- Overview: Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection in the foot pads of chickens, often caused by trauma or poor bedding. It leads to swelling, redness, and pus-filled abscesses.
- Preventive Measure: Ensure that the coop has clean, soft bedding and that there are no sharp objects or rough surfaces that could injure the chickens’ feet. If bumblefoot occurs, it should be treated promptly with antibiotics and proper foot care.
- Respiratory Infections
Overview: Chickens are susceptible to respiratory infections such as infectious bronchitis or mycoplasma. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.
- Preventive Measure: Keep the coop well-ventilated to reduce the buildup of ammonia and other harmful gases. Isolate sick birds to prevent the spread of respiratory infections and avoid overcrowding.
Importance of Regular Health Checks
Regular health checks help detect illnesses at an early stage, this can prevent the spread of disease throughout the flock. Look for changes in behaviour, appetite, egg production, and physical appearance. Check for symptoms such as:
- Change in droppings: Diarrhea or blood in droppings can be signs of infection or internal parasites.
- Changes in egg production: A sudden drop in egg production may indicate stress, illness, or dietary deficiencies.
- Feather loss: Abnormal feather loss can be a sign of external parasites or nutritional deficiencies.
Regularly checking the weight and overall growth of your chickens, especially for chicks and pullets, is also an important aspect of their care. Slow growth or weight loss can be indicators of dietary issues, parasites, or disease.
Inspect each bird for signs of injury, bumblefoot, egg binding, or feather pecking. Look at the beak, comb, and legs for signs of external injuries or infection. Pay attention to their eyes and nostrils for signs of respiratory infections or discharge.
Regularly examine your chickens for external parasites like lice, mites, or fleas. These can be seen on the feathers and skin, particularly around the vent area.
Maintaining Cleanliness
Maintaining a clean chicken coop is crucial for preventing diseases. Regularly remove waste, change bedding, and disinfect surfaces. Wet bedding can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, which can cause respiratory problems.
Clean the waterers and feeders frequently to prevent mould or bacteria buildup.
Regularly disinfect tools such as shovels, feeders, and waterers, especially if you’ve been using them in more than one coop or with sick chickens.
Ensure that your coop is secure from wildlife that may carry diseases or cause harm to your chickens. Tighten any gaps or holes in the structure to prevent wild animals from entering.
Keep the area around the coop free from debris and old feed, as these can attract rodents and pests that carry diseases.
Change the bedding regularly and ensure it’s dry. Wet bedding creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and pests, which can affect your chickens’ health. Straw, wood shavings, and sand are good options for bedding materials that can help with cleanliness and odour control.
Photo By: JackieLou DL
Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds
There are several factors you want to consider when you are choosing a chicken breed for your backyard. Factors to consider are climate adaptability, egg production, and temperament.
1 . Climate Adaptability:
One of the most important factors when choosing a breed is its ability to adapt to your local climate. Different breeds have varying levels of hardiness, and choosing the wrong one may lead to poor health and productivity.
For colder climates chickens with thicker feathering, you may want to choose breeds such as Orpingtons or Australorps. On the other hand, lighter breeds like Leghorns or Rhode Island Reds are better suited for warmer climates as they cope with heat better.
It’s also important to assess whether your chickens will need additional shelter, such as heated coops in winter or shaded areas in summer, depending on the breed and climate.
2 . Egg Production:
Egg production is often a top priority for backyard chicken keepers. Some breeds are more prolific layers than others. Breeds like Leghorns, ISA Browns, and Australorps are well-known for their high egg production.
However, it’s essential to consider the breed’s lifespan for egg production. For example, commercial laying breeds may have a peak production period, and after a certain age, they might produce fewer eggs.
If you’re looking for a consistent egg supply, consider breeds known for their hardiness and ability to lay consistently over several years.
3 . Temperament:
The temperament of the breed is a key consideration for backyard chicken owners, especially those with families or small children.
Breeds such as Silkies and Cochins are known for their calm and friendly personalities, making them great for interaction with kids or for those who want more docile chickens.
On the other hand, some breeds, like Game Hens or Rhode Island Reds, might be more assertive or independent, making them better suited for owners who prefer chickens that require less interaction.
Temperament is a key element in the overall experience of keeping chickens. Friendly, sociable breeds can be more enjoyable to care for and make the backyard experience more interactive.
Popular Breeds for Beginners
- Rhode Island Red
- Egg Production: High – Known for being prolific layers, producing about 250-300 brown eggs annually.
- Temperament: Friendly, but can be independent.
- Climate Adaptability: Hardy in cold weather, though they can handle warmer climates too.
- Leghorn
- Egg Production: Very High – Leghorns are excellent layers, producing up to 300+ white eggs per year.
- Temperament: Active and somewhat independent, but generally not aggressive.
- Climate Adaptability: Best suited for warmer climates due to their light feathering, but they can tolerate cold with proper care.
- Australorp
- Egg Production: High – A reliable layer of about 250-300 brown eggs annually.
- Temperament: Calm and friendly, great for families or beginners.
- Climate Adaptability: Excellent for both hot and cold climates due to their thick plumage.
- Orpington
- Egg Production: Moderate – They lay around 200-250 brown eggs per year.
- Temperament: Very friendly and docile, often described as a “gentle giant.”
- Climate Adaptability: Extremely hardy in cold weather due to their thick feathering but can manage in warmer climates with shade.
- Barred Plymouth Rock
- Egg Production: Moderate – Typically around 200-250 brown eggs annually.
- Temperament: Friendly and inquisitive, making them great for families.
- Climate Adaptability: Hardy in colder climates and adaptable to heat if given enough shade.
- Silkie
- Egg Production: Low – Silkies are not prolific layers, producing about 100-120 small eggs per year.
- Temperament: Extremely calm, friendly, and good with children.
- Climate Adaptability: Sensitive to cold due to their fluffy feathers, so they need additional warmth in winter.
- Isa Brown
- Egg Production: Very High – Known for being reliable layers of large brown eggs, typically 300+ per year.
- Temperament: Friendly and docile, great for beginners.
- Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to both hot and cold climates, though they may require extra care in extreme conditions.
- Cochin
- Egg Production: Moderate – They lay around 150-180 brown eggs annually.
- Temperament: Very friendly and gentle, making them great for families or beginners.
- Climate Adaptability: Well-suited for cold climates due to their fluffy feathering, though care should be taken in hot weather.
- Brahma
- Egg Production: Moderate – Around 200 brown eggs per year.
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and friendly.
- Climate Adaptability: Very cold-hardy, as they have thick feathers that protect them in the winter months.
- Sussex
- Egg Production: High – Lays around 250-300 brown eggs annually.
- Temperament: Friendly and calm but can be a bit independent.
- Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to both hot and cold climates.
- Easter Egger
- Egg Production: High – Produces around 200-250 eggs per year, often in various colors (blue, green, or pink).
- Temperament: Friendly and hardy, though some can be a bit more independent.
- Climate Adaptability: Very adaptable to different climates.
Best Breeds Based on Specific Needs:
- For Egg: Leghorns, Isa Browns, and Rhode Island Reds are excellent choices.
- For Temperament: Silkies, Cochins, and Australorps are great for families and beginners.
- For Cold Climates: Orpingtons, Brahmas, and Australorps are particularly cold-hardy.
- For Hot Climates: Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds handle heat well and still lay plenty of eggs.
Photo By: Роман Бойцов
How Long Do Backyard Chicken Eggs Last?
The freshness and shelf life of backyard chicken eggs depends mainly on how they are stored.
Freshly laid eggs, if kept in a cool, dry place, can typically last about 2 weeks at room temperature. However, eggs are often stored in the refrigerator to ensure longer freshness. When stored in the refrigerator, backyard chicken eggs can last 3-5 weeks or even longer. It’s important to store them in an egg carton, ideally with the pointy end facing down, as this helps preserve their freshness and quality.
A simple test can be done to check if eggs are still good to eat. By placing the egg in a bowl of water, fresh eggs will sink and lay flat on the bottom. Older eggs may float, indicating they are no longer fresh.
If the egg has an unusual odour or the white is very runny (indicating ageing), it’s best not to eat it. Eggs with off smells or visible signs of decay should be discarded.
Conclusions
Raising backyard chickens offers numerous benefits, including a steady supply of fresh eggs, natural pest control, educational opportunities, soil fertilization, waste reduction, and therapeutic advantages.
However, successful chicken keeping requires careful planning and preparation to ensure the health and welfare of the birds.
Adequate space, proper coop design, and safety measures are essential to prevent overcrowding and stress among chickens. A secure and well-ventilated coop with sufficient nesting boxes, roosting bars, and predator protection is key to maintaining a healthy flock.
Proper nutrition is vital at different life stages, from chicks to older hens, ensuring optimal growth and egg production. Clean water, balanced feed, and necessary supplements contribute to the overall well-being of chickens. Regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and parasite control are crucial in preventing diseases such as Marek’s Disease, Newcastle Disease, and Coccidiosis.
Maintaining cleanliness within the coop, implementing biosecurity measures, and conducting regular health checks help detect and prevent illnesses early. Proper storage and handling of eggs further ensure food safety and prolong shelf life.
Overall, keeping backyard chickens is a rewarding experience that requires commitment, knowledge, and responsible care. With the right preparation and ongoing management, chicken keepers can enjoy the benefits of fresh eggs, sustainable practices, and the joy of raising poultry in a home environment.
