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Everything You Need To Know To Care For Your Own Flock Of Chickens

Chad Price

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Published in The Complete Idiot S Guide To Raising Chickens: Everything You Need To Know To Care For Your Own Flock Of Chickens

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Chickens are a popular choice for backyard farmers, and for good reason. They're relatively easy to care for, they're productive (laying eggs on a regular basis),and they can be a lot of fun to have around. But before you bring home a flock of chickens, it's important to do your research and make sure you're prepared to provide them with the care they need.

The Complete Idiot's Guide To Raising Chickens: Everything You Need to Know to Care for Your Own Flock of Chickens

by Jerome D. Belanger

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3309 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages
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Choosing the Right Breed of Chicken

There are many different breeds of chickens available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some breeds are better suited for egg production, while others are better for meat production. Some breeds are more cold-hardy, while others are better suited for warm climates. It's important to choose a breed that is right for your needs and your climate.

Some of the most popular breeds of chickens for backyard farmers include:

Rhode Island Reds: A dual-purpose breed that is good for both egg and meat production.
Plymouth Rocks: Another dual-purpose breed that is known for its hardiness and good egg production.
Leghorns: A breed that is known for its high egg production.
Cornish Cross: A breed that is specifically bred for meat production.

Housing Your Chickens

Chickens need a place to sleep, lay eggs, and shelter from the elements. The type of housing you choose will depend on the size of your flock and the climate you live in.

There are many different types of chicken coops available, from simple A-frame coops to more elaborate structures with multiple rooms. It's important to choose a coop that is the right size for your flock and that provides adequate protection from the elements.

In addition to a coop, you will also need to provide your chickens with a run. A run is an enclosed area where your chickens can exercise and forage. The size of the run will depend on the size of your flock, but it should be at least 10 square feet per chicken.

Feeding Your Chickens

Chickens need a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, and fat. You can Free Download commercial chicken feed from your local farm store, or you can make your own feed. If you choose to make your own feed, be sure to do your research to ensure that you are providing your chickens with a complete and balanced diet.

In addition to feed, you should also provide your chickens with fresh water at all times.

Keeping Your Chickens Healthy

Chickens are relatively healthy animals, but they can be susceptible to a variety of diseases and parasites. It's important to keep your chickens vaccinated and wormed, and to provide them with a clean and healthy environment.

Some of the most common diseases and parasites that affect chickens include:

Marek's disease: A highly contagious disease that can cause tumors in chickens.
Newcastle disease: A respiratory disease that can be fatal to chickens.
Fowl pox: A viral disease that causes lesions on the skin and respiratory tract.
Coccidiosis: A parasitic disease that can cause diarrhea and weight loss.
Worms: A variety of worms can infect chickens, causing a variety of health problems.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even the most experienced chicken keepers will encounter problems from time to time. Here are some of the most common problems that chicken keepers face, and how to solve them:

My chickens aren't laying eggs. There are a number of reasons why your chickens may not be laying eggs, including stress, lack of nutrition, and disease. Try to identify the cause of the problem and take steps to correct it.
My chickens are sick. If your chickens are showing signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or respiratory problems, it's important to isolate them from the rest of the flock and contact a veterinarian.
My chickens are fighting. Chickens can be territorial animals, and they may fight if they feel threatened. Try to provide your chickens with plenty of space and resources, and avoid overcrowding.