Month: April 2023

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10 Common Mistakes Chicken Raisers Make and How to Avoid Them

Chicken coop, free range hens

Chickens can be a fun and rewarding addition to any backyard, but raising them comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to sick, unhappy chickens or even lost eggs. Here are the top 10 mistakes made by chicken raisers and how to avoid them.

  1. Overcrowding the coop: Chickens need space to move around and flap their wings. Overcrowding can lead to stress and disease, so make sure your coop is big enough for your flock.
  2. Not providing enough ventilation: Poor air circulation can lead to respiratory problems for your chickens. Make sure your coop has adequate ventilation, especially in hot weather.
  3. Using the wrong feed: Chickens need a balanced diet to stay healthy and produce eggs. Make sure you’re using the right type of feed for your chickens and their age.
  4. Not providing enough water: Chickens need access to fresh, clean water at all times. Make sure your waterer is large enough for your flock and cleaned regularly.
  5. Not protecting against predators: Predators like raccoons, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can pose a threat to your chickens. Make sure your coop and run are secure and protected.
  6. Not providing enough light: Chickens need at least 14 hours of light per day to lay eggs consistently. If your coop doesn’t get enough natural light, consider adding a light source.
  7. Not cleaning the coop regularly: Dirty coops can lead to disease and pests like mites and lice. Make sure to clean your coop at least once a week and replace bedding as needed.
  8. Not quarantining new birds: Adding new birds to your flock can introduce disease. Quarantine new birds for at least two weeks before introducing them to your existing flock.
  9. Not providing enough roosting space: Chickens like to roost at night, so make sure your coop has plenty of roosting space. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 8 inches of roosting space per chicken.
  10. Not checking for eggs regularly: It’s easy to miss an egg or two in a busy coop, but leaving eggs in the nest can lead to egg-eating and other bad habits. Check for eggs at least once a day and remove them promptly.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to happy, healthy chickens and a thriving backyard flock.