If you’re like me, you’ve embarked on the joyful journey of raising backyard chickens. It’s a rewarding experience full of clucks, crows, and breakfast-worthy eggs. However, along the way, you may stumble into common mistakes that can make the process more challenging. Let’s hatch open these issues and explore how to avoid the most common mistakes in raising backyard chickens.
Neglecting Predator Protection
Predators are a chicken owner’s worst nightmare, with culprits ranging from sly foxes to aerial attackers like hawks, and even the seemingly harmless neighborhood pets. Never underestimate a predator’s determination or cunning when a delicious chicken dinner is at stake.
Underestimating Predator Cunning
In my area, we have many types of predators including foxes, coyotes, and raccoons (plus many more). I have trained my two Pitbulls to keep an eye and ear out for sneak attacks. Foxes are especially persistent.
When the foxes have kits and are feeding them in the spring and summer my hens go on lockdown until I get home from work in the afternoon. The hens hate it, but they get to live.
How do I know when it is time to start locking down? Reduced chicken count!
Inadequate Coop Security
Your chicken coop is your first line of defense against these predators. A poorly secured coop is essentially an open invitation to these threats. Proper coop security involves robust, well-maintained latches, predator-proof chicken wire, and secure night-time enclosures.
Do you think they can’t figure out a door latch? Raccoons wear those stereotypical bandit masks for a reason! They have awesome lock-picking skills. If you use a simple latch, take care to find a way to lock it.
Mismanaging Space
Overcrowding
Chickens, like us, need their space. Overcrowding can lead to stress, aggressive behavior, and disease spread. A good rule of thumb is to provide a minimum of 3-4 square feet of coop space per chicken, but the more room, the better to a point.
You don’t want so much space in the coop that the chickens can’t self-heat the coop in winter. If you do give the gals lots of room in their luxury hotel, you will want to invest in a coop heater.
Lack of Roosting Space
Chickens love to roost off the ground at night. Not providing enough roosting spaces can result in chickens getting overly territorial. Each chicken should have about 8-10 inches of roosting space.
There are many items you can use for roots.: two-by-fours, dowels, or my favorite, branches from the local woods. I prefer larger in diameter rather than smaller. One or two-inch diameter sticks are fine.
Inappropriate or Inadequate Feeding
Unbalanced Diet
Chickens aren’t just walking egg-layers; they’re living creatures that require a balanced diet. Treats should only supplement their diet and not become the main course. Chickens need a diet rich in proteins, grains, and essential minerals to lay those perfect eggs and stay healthy.
Commercial feeds are perfectly formulated to help encourage your girls to lay consistently while providing the nutrients they need to thrive. I prefer organic feed, but that’s me.
Irregular Feeding Times
Chickens thrive on routine, and erratic feeding times can lead to stressed birds. Consistent feeding times also make it easier to spot health problems early if a chicken suddenly loses interest in food.
Overlooking Health Issues
Lack of Regular Health Checks
Chickens can’t tell you when they’re feeling under the weather. Regular health checks are crucial to spot early signs of diseases like avian flu or parasites. Check for common signs like listlessness, irregular breathing, coughing, sneezing, or unusual droppings.
Ignorance about Chicken Parasites
Mites, lice, and worms are just a few of the parasitic troubles chickens can have. A parasitic infestation can harm your flock’s health and egg production. Regular preventative measures and treatments can help keep these pests at bay.
In extreme cases, a veterinarian can be called in to look at your chickens. Otherwise, over-the-counter medications are readily available.
Expecting Eggs Too Soon
Unrealistic Expectations
Patience is a virtue, especially when waiting for your first egg. Chickens won’t start laying eggs until they’re about five to six months old. Factors such as breed, diet, and daylight can influence this.
There’s not much you can do about controlling this mania, but don’t worry, I share it too. It just means you love what is going on.
Lack of Patience
Remember, raising chickens is not just about the eggs. Enjoy the process of watching your feathery friends grow and flourish in your care. Watch how they interact with each other. shake your head at their crazy antics. Marvel at their many abilities that far exceed ours like predator detection and eyesight.
Inadequate Weather Protection
Lack of Preparation for Cold Weather
Winter can be a challenging time for your flock. Properly winterizing your coop, ensuring your chickens have enough insulation, and providing unfrozen water are key steps in protecting your chickens during cold weather. Arm yourself with a heated waterer, a coop heater, and extra bedding.
Lack of Preparation for Hot Weather
Just as the cold can be brutal, so too can extreme heat. Providing adequate shade, cool water, and ventilation helps chickens beat the heat.
In conclusion, while there are common mistakes in raising backyard chickens, with knowledge and vigilance, you can easily avoid them. Continually learning and improving is part of the journey of raising a happy, healthy backyard flock. For further guidance, check out other posts on ChickenMethod.com.
Thanks for your time. Please leave a comment if you would be so kind.
Dave
Chickenmethod.com