Raising Chickens 101
(The Basics)

So, you're interested in raising chickens?  You've embarked on a fun an exciting journey! BYC (BackYardChickens) is FULL of great information. If your question isn't answered in the main pages of the site then we promise there is an answer on our chicken forum.

Below are the absolute basics of raising chickens. For more detailed information please explore the rest of the site and join our forum.

Why Raise Chickens? 
Here are a few of the most frequently expressed reasons people raise chickens: 

• Easy and inexpensive to maintain (when compared to most other pets)
• Eggs that are fresh, great-tasting & nutritious
• Chemical-free bug and weed control
• Manufacture the worlds best fertilizer
• Fun & friendly pets with personality (yes, you read that right)

Where To Get Chicks:

• Local Feed Stores often carry a variety of day old chicks around Spring
• Hatch chicks from eggs - HomeMade Chicken Incubator
• Search our Buy Sell Trade section for members selling hatching eggs or chicks.
• Check our list of chicken suppliers.

How To Care For A Chick - First 60 Days:

• Young Chick Brooder - Can be as simple as a sturdy cardboard box or a small animal cage like one you'd use for rabbits.
• Flooring - Pine shavings work best
• Temperature - 90 to 100 deg. for the first week, decrease 5 deg. per week.  A 100 watt bulb pointing in one corner (not the whole brooder) works well.