Healthy, Happy Hens

.
Certain breeds of chickens can live 8 to 10 years if they are healthy and have proper care and nutrition. Here are tips and ideas to consider before you purchase baby chicks this month:

Before you bring them home, give some thought to their home. Namely, “The Coop.”  There should be enough room for the number of chicks you are planning to raise. Overcrowding leads to problems, so make sure their coop is large enough. Easy access to cleaning, make doubly sure it’s predator proof,  adequate ventilation, doors and locks. Use sturdy screens, chicken wire, etc.

Roosting platforms should be high enough so the chickens have a place to roost and feel safe.

Don’t forget nesting boxes. Nesting boxes are important so the hens don’t lay their eggs in the coop or outside in the yard.

Bedding should be fresh straw. We suggest straw only as it is best for insulation. Chickens also like to scratch through the straw and nibble at the chaff. Straw is safe and clean for the flock. Straw bedding should be changed weekly, replaced with fresh and dry.

You can build your own nesting boxes from wood crates, or use wicker baskets, milk crates, etc. Just be sure the hens have enough room to nestle and a way to get in them.

Always provide the chicks with clean water and change it several times each day.

Food: The old saying “you are what you eat” holds true with the chicks. A good quality feed will provide the proper nutrition, vitamins and calcium. Calcium is most important for strong eggshells. You can also add small amounts of  leaf lettuce, kale, spinach, fresh strawberries, zinnia and marigold flowers and some dried culinary herbs to their diet.

A clean coop is a healthy coop. Never use bleach or ammonia.  We suggest you use plain white vinegar for wiping down doors, walls, racks, and nesting boxes. Plain white vinegar is safe to use around the hens.

All the best to you Chicken Keepers.

~ Azul and Meadow Walker

Freshen your chicken coop with our Fresh Coop Spritzer ! Check it out here.