Raising your own Chickens, is it for you?

By RE/MAX Complete

Tips on Raising your own Chickens

A lot of people are wanting to become more self-reliant and a good way to start is raising your own chickens for eggs and possibly meat.    Some urban cities in Utah are starting to allow you to raise chickens, but please check with your individual city to see if you are able to.   In the Deseret News on May 7th, 2011, there was a great article in the newspaper about raising chickens.   We hope this information has some interest for you.   

Utah State University has assembled a quick list for getting your brood off to a productive start.  Here is what they recommend for chicken novices:

GET YOUR CHICKS OFF TO

A GOOD START

Use a heat source, like a 250-watt infrared light, to keep the “brooder ring” between 110 degrees close to the lamp and 84 degrees away from the lamp.   Decrease heat by 5 degrees each week for first four weeks.

HOUSING

Large enough for circulation, but not too big that the coop will be drafty and cold in the winter – about 2 to 3 feet of floor space per chicken.   Provide easy access to food and water and nesting areas for hens during egg production.

NEST BOXES

Hens need a secluded place to lay their eggs, and four to five hens can use one nest box.  There are no set rules for building a nest box, but a place for egg production is necessary.   A diagram of a suggested nest box can be found HERE

WATER

Birds consume more water than feed.  Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.  One gallon of water is enough for 12-15 birds during cool weather, and 6-12 birds during hot weather.  Have plenty of excess water for birds to drink in addition to the minimum necessary.

QUALITY FEED IS NECESSARY

Fresh feed should be used, and food should be stored in a dry, dark place to avoid mold and spoiling.  Also, feed should be secured from mice and other rodents.

PLENTY OF LIGHT

Hens need at least 14 hours – most recommend at least 16 hours – of light for good egg production.  Artificial light can supplement natural daylight during fall and winter months.