Suburban Chickens

Discover the joys and rewards of raising chickens in your backyard!

Author Karen Harris used interviews with a half dozen experienced small-scale chicken farmers to create the ultimate "how-to" book for managing a backyard flock.

A TRULY comprehensive guide covering everything you NEED TO KNOW:Sourcing Chicks
Understanding chicken terms and breeds
Differentiating between layers, meat birds, dual-purpose chickens, and bantams
When and where to get chicks: local hatcheries, mail-order, feed stores, local breeders, community exchange groups
Preparing for the arrival of chicks: setting up a brooder, providing heat, light, ventilation, quarantine, socialization
Raising Chicks
Feeding and watering chicks: chick starter, fresh water, treats, grit
Ensuring proper warmth and ventilation
Monitoring chick health and growth: antibiotics, injuries, illnesses, tracking growth
Transitioning chicks to the coop: feathering, weaning from heat lamp, weather considerations, coop introduction
Housing for Suburban Chickens
Types of chicken housing for small spaces: pre-made coops, custom-built coops, converted sheds, mobile coops
Determining the ideal coop size
Essential coop features: door, roosts, nesting boxes, predator protection, ventilation, natural sunlight
Additional desirable coop features: people door, exterior egg collection lid, feed tubes, electricity
Importance of a well-designed chicken run and bedding material options
Feeding Your Flock
Understanding the digestive system and nutritional requirements of chickens: protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, calcium, water
Types and styles of chicken feed: starter, grower, finisher, layer; crumbles, pellets, mash, scratch
Supplementing feed with treats and greens: fruits, vegetables, safe options, growing your own chicken food
Importance of oyster shells and distinguishing between oyster shells and grit
Considerations regarding lawn care and the interaction of suburban chickens
Protecting Your Chickens from Predators
Identifying common predators in suburban areas: wildlife (raccoons, hawks, coyotes, etc.) and domestic (dogs, cats, humans)
Deterrence strategies: fencing, netting, alarms, motion lights, locks, and latches
Responding to an attack: in-progress response, assessing injuries, regrouping afterward
Urban Chicken Ordinances
Understanding laws, regulations, ordinances, and homeowners' associations
Addressed concerns: number of chickens, rooster bans, slaughter and free-range rules, nuisance complaints, coop placement and housing requirements, health codes
Free-Ranging and Foraging
Benefits of free-ranging: varied diet, better egg quality, active chickens, tastier meat, cleaner coop, reduced feed costs, insect control, mental stimulation
Managing free-range time, protecting free-ranging chickens, drawbacks to consider: lawn chemicals, chicken poop, foraging risks

Written in an accessible and engaging style, each chapter is designed to enhance your knowledge and equip you with the tools necessary to succeed.