Keeping Chickens - What you need to know
Keeping chickens is becoming more and more popular. Whether they are to serve as pets or egg producers, there are still certain things you should know.
We have put together this brief, but hopefully helpful article, that we hope you enjoy.
Where to keep Chickens
Chickens should be kept outdoors in a coop or shed. You can buy or build your own chicken coop.
Your coop should have:- a recommended 1,100 square centimeter floor area for each bird
- a perch for them to stand on while they sleep
- an exercise space, or 'run'
- a nesting box filled with wood shavings for the hens to lay eggs
You should clean the coop every week and put out fresh bedding.
Keeping chickens safe from predators
Most who keep chickens will experience predators - usually foxes - trying to get into the coop.
Foxes can climb, dig and squeeze through very small fences. Here are some tips to keep your chickens safe:
- Use wire mesh fencing all the way around and above the coop
- Fix wooden boards to the base of the fence
- Check the coop regularly to ensure it is secure
- Shut the chickens into the coop at night
Feeding and watering the chickens
We know a very good place you can buy chicken food ;-) www.crawfordsfeed.co.uk
Grit is also an important part of a chickens diet. These tiny stones help them break down and digest their food. Keep a supply of grit available and the chickens will help themselves to however much they need.
Chickens needs a constant supply of clean drinking water. Try to choose a container that the chickens can't step in or knock over.
Diseases that affect Chickens
Salmonella and campylobacter are common diseases that may cause some problems in people.
Other conditions include:
- coccidiosis
- Marek's disease
- Infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease)
- Infectious bronchitis and lameness
Some less common diseases include:
- Newcastle disease
- Avian Influenza
These are notifiable diseases, which means that if you suspect your chickens are showing signs of these diseases, you must notify the local Divisional Veterinary Office. These are major diseases which can cause major losses to the poultry industry and are controlled by DARD.
What do you think? Want to know more?
We have a wealth of knowledge about most animals and pets. If you want to know more, do not hesitate to ask us to release an article with something specific.
Do you like what you have read? It is brief, but hopefully helpful.
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