Getting my first hens on Tuesday - what do I need to know ?

[Wearegoingtobedlehem]

I have got a nice coop and have made them a large run with electric netting (off the mains as we're a farm). I have aubiose (hemp bedding) for them - drinkers and feeders etc - what tips can you give me? What do I need to know - I have read up on it all but just feeling nervous!! Mainly about naughty mister foxy!

[Cybercat]

I was terrified before I had my ladies. I'd read so much I had scared myself (and still do when I read some articles!). Now I'm much more relaxed and love being able to give our eggs to family. Chickens are awesome!

[Wearegoingtobedlehem]

Cybercat funnily enough I did stock up on mealworms today along with grit - I am sure I have everything else. I am so glad it's finally going to happen but mildly afraid still!!
With the electric netting- will keep the grass short, have used similar net for the sheep in the past. I have also bought extra corner posts for it and ground anchors - so fingers well and truly crossed!

[Elliptic5]

Join the Omlet Forum (sorry MN ) , wealth of knowledge on there.

[Cybercat]

Keep the aubiose dry. Its brilliant stuff but it wicks up liquid easily. Ive struggled in this weather. Stock up on mealworms - my ladies love them!

[SimLondon]

You sound very well organised :-) just be careful about them all settling in together to begin with whilst the are establishing a pecking order, if there is any bullying / injuries then sudocream and purple spray come in handy.

The grass growing underneath the netting will reduce the strength of the fence so maybe spray a strip of weedkiller directly underneath.

We want to see photos :-)