I just want to start by saying this: there are no bad chickens. You only have to take into consideration a few factors, such as:
- Housing conditions;
- Weather and light conditions;
- Feeding requirements;
- Breed temperament;
- Size (bantam or large fowl);
- Preference for egg colour;
- Time you are willing to expend with them;
- What will their porpouse be (pet, eggs or meat).
On today's post we will discuss the housing conditions, weather, light conditions and feeding requirements.
(the other factors will be discussed at a later date)
For the housing conditions you can offer your future birds, you need to take into consideration the space you are able to provide, weather conditions in your area, day light time, type of terrain and the diet you will provide your chickens with.
It is no secret the best conditions will bring more happiness and better health to your birds.
Each chicken breed has specific space requirements, depending on their size, temperament and production. Make sure you research all that before making your choice.
Overcrowding will lead to stress, feather plucking, infections, reduced egg production and, in some cases, cannibalism.
Weather conditions also have a major impact on the overall health and well being of these birds. Make sure the breed of your choice fits well with the climate in your area.
Extreme cold or heat will become stress factors, which will translate into a considerable decrease in production rates, thus financial loss
There are also breeds that need more shelter from the elements (rain, wind, cold) than other, like silkies.
Chickens are light-dependent animals.
When exposed to light for longer period of time, they will produce more eggs, eat more and gain more weight. If you live in an area where it gets dark quickly, you will need to provide them with a few hours of artificial light every day, which will substantially increase your keeping costs.
You can also choose to let the chickens regulate themselves according to the day light time and season, which will give them time to moult and get some rest from egg laying.
There are many elements that need to be a part of your chicken’s daily diet, such as corn, wheat, sunflower seeds, greens, minerals, grit, proteins and more.
The ideal situation is for them to be raised in a free-range system, which would be cheaper for you.
You always need to ensure you provide them with a nutritional feed and let them choose what they want to eat.
However, if this is not possible, make sure you provide them with all the much-needed elements for them to thrive.
In my case, I live in the middle of city, and all my neighbours have dogs and cats. To protect my flocks they are in a safe run. They choose when to eat, lay eggs and go back to the coop. I do not provide them with artificial light and, in the winter, when it gets dark at 3 pm, they sleep for longer and their egg production decreases. I also give them protein rich pellets, egg shells, different vegetables, corn, seeds and, when they are moulting, fish and scrambled eggs (for extra protein).
Hope you have found this post helpful. 🐔
With love, from our team,
FL Poultry
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