I don’t know about you, but when gardening season is coming to an end, and the cooler weather begins hitting, I start thinking about spring. And what comes along with spring? Spring chicks! I am all about getting chicks early on in the year so that they can be laying eggs by the end of the first summer. In my area, that means getting chicks around March.
If you are thinking about getting chickens for the first time, this is written just for you. I’m going to walk you through all the steps of getting your first flock—from choosing a breed that’s right for you and your family, to preparing the right spaces in order to keep them safe and healthy. If you’re ready for some fluffy new friends who will love you unconditionally (well…maybe not unconditionally), read on!
Confirm your time commitment
Before you make the decision to get chickens, it’s important to be aware that they do involve a bit of work. You will need to be able to get out to your chickens daily to check on them, feed and water them, lock them up at night, and let them out in the morning. If you have cold winters, you may also need to go out a few times a day to make sure their water isn’t frozen. Depending on the method you choose for your coop, you may need to clean a little daily, or you may need 2-3 big coop clean-outs every year. You will need to keep an eye on your chickens so you can watch for mites and illnesses.
If you don’t have time in your life to commit to caring for them properly, then it’s probably best to wait until a season of life when you will have the time to devote to them. However, if you do have the time and want something rewarding (and who doesn’t?) then this might just be what your backyard needs!
Safeguard your flock
Before you buy chicks, it’s important to consider how you will protect them from predators once they are old enough to be in the coop. Chickens are vulnerable to hawks, raccoons, and other predators, who will pick them off quickly. One way to help combat predators is to have a good rooster. If that isn’t enough, you may need to consider a different setup or a farm dog with a low prey drive.
Chickens need a safe, dry place to sleep—usually a coop that can be locked up at night. They need a safe place to eat and drink water (I recommend putting this outside of their coop so their coop stays dry and clean). They will also need roosting bars (2×4’s are best—do not use round bars or dowel rods as these can distort their feet) and nesting boxes.
Chickens can get sick if they live in an area with poor air quality. You must make sure that your chicken coop has enough ventilation so that humidity and condensation don’t build up. This can cause respiratory issues for your flock.
At the same time, if you live in a cold climate where temperatures drop below freezing during winter months, you will need to make sure that there isn’t so much ventilation that your birds freeze while they sleep! It is recommended that you have 1 square foot of ventilation for every 10 square feet of chicken coop floor space.
They also need a place to forage, dust bathe, and explore their surroundings. Some chicken owners build fancy chicken runs with chicken wire all around, others allow their chickens to free range, and some choose something in between. It’s all about finding what works for you and your flock.
Know what to expect when you get chicks
Caring for baby chicks requires knowledge, attentiveness, and dedication. Understanding what to expect during this phase is essential for providing the best care and ensuring the chicks grow into healthy, productive chickens.
The brooder
First, it’s vital to create a suitable environment for the baby chicks. A brooder, a warm and secure enclosure, is necessary to regulate temperature and protect the chicks from predators. You’ll need a heat source, such as a heat lamp or heat plate, to mimic the warmth they would naturally receive from a mother hen. The temperature should be carefully monitored and adjusted based on the chicks’ age. Typically, chicks need a starting temperature of around 95-100°F (35-38°C) in the first week, which is then gradually reduced by about 5°F (2.5°C) per week until they are fully feathered.
Next, you’ll need to provide appropriate bedding, such as large pine shavings, to maintain a clean and comfortable living area. Frequent cleaning and changing of the bedding are crucial to prevent diseases and maintain hygiene.
Feeding chicks
Feeding is another vital aspect of chick care. Choose a high-quality chick starter feed that contains essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicks should have constant access to fresh, clean water. If you don’t have a waterer just for chicks, you might want to put rocks in their waterer to prevent them from falling in and drowning in the first couple weeks. It’s important to observe their behavior to ensure they are eating and drinking adequately. Proper nutrition is key to healthy growth and development.
You will also want to make sure your chicks have access to grit, which is a coarse substance, often made of crushed granite or small pebbles. It serves a vital role in their digestive process by aiding in the breakdown of food in their gizzard, a muscular organ where food is ground down. Chickens lack teeth, so grit acts as their natural ‘teeth,’ helping to break down grains and other food items they consume. Usually chickens will find materials on their own when they forage, but chicks who are in brooders don’t have that option. Without grit, chicks may struggle to effectively digest their feed, leading to poor digestion, nutrient deficiencies, and overall health issues.
Other things to know
Social interaction and gentle handling are important for the chicks’ well-being. Spend time with them daily, offering treats and speaking softly to help them become accustomed to human presence. This not only aids in their socialization but also reduces stress levels.
Additionally, monitoring the chicks for signs of illness or distress is crucial. Keep an eye out for symptoms like lethargy, abnormal droppings, sneezing, or unusual behaviors. If you notice anything concerning, do some research to figure out what’s going on, or reach out to a seasoned chicken owner or a veterinarian for help.
One common issue for chicks in the brooder is called pasty butt (some call it poopy butt). Pasty butt is a common issue in young chicks where feces stick to the feathers around the vent area, potentially blocking the chick’s ability to defecate. This condition can be uncomfortable and even deadly if not addressed promptly. In a natural setting, a mother hen would clean her chicks instinctively, but in a brooder, you are the one who is responsible for cleaning them. To take care of a chick with pasty butt, first, gently clean the affected area with warm water and a soft cloth or cotton swab. Gently soften and remove the dried feces, being careful not to pull out any down feathers. Ensure the chick stays warm during this process and doesn’t get chilled. After cleaning, keep an eye on the chick to ensure it continues to defecate normally. If pasty butt persists or worsens, consult a veterinarian for further guidance and potential adjustments to the chick’s diet or environment to prevent future occurrences. Proper hygiene and regular checks can help prevent pasty butt from becoming deadly in young chicks.
With dedication and knowledge, you’ll ensure a healthy start for your chicks as they grow into thriving chickens.
If you would like a notebook to help you keep track of all things chicks and chickens, check out this printable chicken journal.
Chickens are a lot of fun and they’re worth it
They’re fairly easy to care for, they can make great pets if that is what you are looking for, and you get fresh eggs from them! If you have children, chickens can also be a great way for kids to learn about responsibility and caring for animals.
We hope this post has helped you understand the ins and outs of getting started with chickens. It can be a lot to take in, but we’re here for you! If you have any questions about how to care for your flock or what to expect from them, don’t hesitate to reach out. We love hearing from our readers and are always happy to help out in any way possible.
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