Editor’s Note

I remember being fascinated by my uncle’s chicken coop when I was a kid. There was always so much activity going on within, and the birds were a never-ending source of entertainment. It was not until I got older that I really noticed all the careful planning and work he put into it. When you start your own flock, there are a lot of things you need to take into account first. What kind of chickens will you keep? Will they be pets or a source of eggs? Will they ultimately be a source of meat? Will you keep them in an enclosed coop or will they be a free-range flock?

Within these pages, you will find everything you need to get started, beginning with a breakdown on selecting how you will source your chickens (page 4) and the breeds you might like to keep. Depending on your goals, not all chicken breeds will be appropriate. Find out which hens will lay the most eggs and which birds offer better meat on page 28.

Coop selection and construction is always a major consideration. There are a variety of chicken coops to choose from. Turn to page 36 and find out all the fun options! Of course, as you set up your coop and the decor within, you need to think carefully about how you will defend your flock from predators. Learn about the usual suspects and how to deter them on page 54.

Predators and pets aside, you will also find that chickens can, at times, be a danger to themselves. There is definitely a pecking order, and learning to understand the flock hierarchy will help you to keep your birds safe and stress free (page 80).

As with any animal in your care, you need to make sure they have all they need to remain healthy. There are several common chicken ailments that should be on your radar. Read the list on page 88 and find out more about how to prevent and treat them. Whether you live on a farm or in a suburb that allows livestock, raising chickens can be a rewarding endeavor. Treat them right and your happy hens will return the favor.

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