Chicken Keeping 101
20
I will help advise with how to start keeping chickens with the basics or help take the next step to expand your flock. .
My focus is on chickens that pretty eggs so I know a bit about the breeds that lay pretty eggs but have basic knowledge on the pros and cons of many other breeds as well. I've also crossed different breeds to create new egg colors in the offspring.
Eyeing those adorable chicks? I can advise which things you need and how to begin.
What are the bare minimum needs?
How much space now and in the future?
What kind of bedding?
What heat options are safe?
What temperature do chicks need?
Where can I keep them?
What first aid kit do I need?
Do I need to deworm or do other treatments?
What kind of food should I buy?
Pros and cons of free range, chicken tractor, or in a coop and run?
Do I need to worry about predators?
How much ventilation do they need?
Plus any other questions you may have. I've been asked questions that may seem obvious to some and not so obvious to others.
Training & Qualifications
I grew up on a farm with chickens, goats, and many other animals. I've been keeping chickens for the last few years and have done pretty extensive research on many topics with an emphasis on health of chickens, people, and biosecurity. I use medication if needed but generally know ways to keep chickens healthy without requiring medications.
I've hatched chicks from eggs, given stitches in an emergency, treated for lice, tested for worms, figured out how to prevent most parasites so I no longer have to treat, researched on egg withdrawal and why using medications for prevention leads to a lifetime egg withdrawal, heat pros and cons, figured out how to predator proof a run after a neighbor dog killed my first flock, dispatched injured chicks, meat birds, or predators, and so much more
I have links to back up my research so you can read my advice but also fact check and come to your own conclusions
Availability & Preferences
I'm pretty flexible and can sometimes be available right away or schedule a time that works for both of us between 10am-10pm PDT.