Raising chickens is a rewarding experience, but like any new venture, there are plenty of potential pitfalls, especially for beginners. From overlooking local regulations to failing to understand chicken behavior, it’s easy to make mistakes when you’re just starting out. To help you avoid common missteps, this blog covers the top 10 mistakes that beginners make when keeping chickens and offers practical advice to set you up for success.
1. Overlooking Local Regulations and HOA Rules
One of the most common mistakes new chicken keepers make is failing to research local laws and regulations before bringing chickens home. Many cities, towns, and homeowner associations (HOAs) have specific ordinances around backyard poultry, such as limits on flock size, coop location, and whether roosters are allowed.
- Solution: Before purchasing chickens, check with your local government or HOA about poultry regulations. Some areas require permits, while others may restrict certain breeds or limit the number of chickens you can keep. Being informed upfront helps avoid potential fines or the disappointment of having to rehome your birds.
2. Inadequate Space and Coop Planning
Chickens require adequate space to stay healthy and happy. When they’re overcrowded, chickens can become stressed, aggressive, and more prone to disease. A common error is building a coop that’s too small or failing to include an outdoor run for exercise.
- Solution: Aim to provide at least 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in an outdoor run. More space is always better, as chickens like to stretch, scratch, and forage. Plan for enough roosting space, nesting boxes, and ventilation to keep the coop comfortable and sanitary.
3. Underestimating Predators
Predators are a serious threat to backyard chickens, and many beginners underestimate how determined animals like raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can be. Predators can dig under fences, squeeze through gaps, and tear open flimsy coop materials.
- Solution: Use strong, predator-proof materials like hardware cloth rather than chicken wire, which is easily torn. Bury the wire at least 12 inches underground to prevent digging, and install a secure latch on coop doors. Cover outdoor runs with netting to protect against aerial predators like hawks.
4. Choosing Too Many Chickens or the Wrong Breeds
It’s tempting to bring home as many chickens as possible, especially with so many appealing breeds to choose from. However, beginners often end up overwhelmed by flock size or by breeds that aren’t suited to their needs, such as roosters or high-maintenance birds.
- Solution: Start with a small flock of around 3 to 5 hens. This number is manageable for beginners, and hens will keep each other company. Research breeds that fit your goals, whether for egg production, meat, or temperament. Hardy breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons, and Plymouth Rocks are great for beginners.
5. Poor Feeding Habits and Inadequate Nutrition
Feeding chickens isn’t as simple as tossing out kitchen scraps; chickens require a balanced diet for healthy growth and egg production. Relying too heavily on treats or feeding an unbalanced diet can lead to health issues and poor egg quality.
- Solution: Invest in a quality layer feed, which is formulated to meet all the nutritional needs of laying hens. Offer treats like fruits, vegetables, and grains in moderation, limiting treats to about 10% of their diet. Provide supplemental calcium, such as crushed oyster shells, for strong eggshells and make sure they have constant access to fresh water.
6. Skipping Regular Health Checks
Chickens are prey animals, so they’re good at hiding signs of illness until it becomes severe. Beginners may not know what to look for, leading to missed signs of common health issues like parasites, respiratory infections, or egg-laying problems.
- Solution: Get into the habit of doing monthly health checks on each bird. Look for signs of illness, such as dull feathers, lethargy, pale combs, and unusual behavior. Check for external parasites under their wings and around the vent. A prompt response to health concerns can prevent issues from worsening and spreading within the flock.
7. Ignoring Chicken Body Language
Chickens communicate a lot through body language, and understanding their behavior can be key to managing a happy flock. For example, pecking, feather fluffing, and head bobbing all have meanings. Beginners often miss these cues, resulting in misunderstandings about flock dynamics.
- Solution: Spend time observing your flock and learning about chicken behaviors. For instance, feather fluffing can indicate a chicken is cold or stressed, while pecking is often part of establishing the pecking order. By understanding their body language, you’ll be able to spot issues like bullying, illness, and stress.
8. Not Having a Plan for Waste Management
Chickens produce a significant amount of waste, which, if left unmanaged, can create odor, attract pests, and contribute to poor coop hygiene. Beginners often overlook waste management, leading to unsanitary conditions that affect the health of the flock.
- Solution: Consider using the deep litter method, where a thick layer of bedding absorbs waste and is turned over regularly to break down. Alternatively, clean the coop weekly, removing soiled bedding and droppings. Chicken manure is a great addition to compost, so create a composting system if possible to turn waste into valuable garden fertilizer.
9. Overlooking the Need for a Secure Run and Enrichment
Chickens are active creatures that need stimulation to stay healthy. Without adequate enrichment, they may become bored, leading to destructive behaviors like feather pecking or egg eating. Beginners often underestimate the importance of a secure run and enrichment items.
- Solution: Ensure your chickens have a secure, predator-proof run to exercise safely. Add items like dust-bath areas, pecking blocks, perches, and small foraging piles to keep them busy and encourage natural behaviors. Enrichment reduces stress and helps maintain a peaceful, productive flock.
10. Inconsistent Coop Cleaning and Maintenance
A dirty coop can lead to respiratory issues, parasites, and unpleasant odors. Beginners sometimes overlook regular coop maintenance, which can lead to unsanitary conditions that affect both the chickens’ health and egg quality.
- Solution: Establish a regular cleaning routine to keep the coop fresh and reduce health risks. Weekly or biweekly cleanouts, including replacing bedding and removing droppings, help maintain a healthy environment. Check for any damage to the coop, such as gaps, broken latches, or leaking roofs, and repair them promptly to keep the coop safe and dry.
Keeping chickens is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to avoid common beginner mistakes that can lead to stress, illness, or safety issues. By understanding local regulations, providing adequate space, managing predators, and maintaining a clean environment, you set the stage for a healthy, happy flock. Feeding your chickens a balanced diet, observing their behavior, and giving them plenty of enrichment will ensure they thrive, rewarding you with fresh, delicious eggs and lively companionship. With preparation and attention to these key areas, you’ll quickly become a confident and successful chicken keeper.
FAQs
1. How many chickens should a beginner start with?
It’s recommended to start with 3-5 hens to keep things manageable while you learn the basics of chicken care.
2. Can chickens eat kitchen scraps?
Yes, chickens can eat many kitchen scraps, but be cautious with certain foods, such as onions, chocolate, and avocado, which can be toxic.
3. How often should I clean the coop?
Weekly or biweekly cleanouts, with regular removal of soiled bedding, help maintain a healthy environment. Deep cleaning every few months is also recommended.
4. Do I need a rooster for my hens to lay eggs?
No, hens will lay eggs without a rooster. Roosters are only necessary if you want fertilized eggs for hatching.
5. What’s the best bedding for chickens?
Pine shavings, straw, and hemp are popular choices for bedding. Choose an absorbent, low-dust option to keep the coop clean and reduce respiratory issues.
