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Chicken keepers

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Original poster

Im buying some chickens, can I have some advice please?

13 replies

OnlyWantsOne · 20/04/2010 08:44

I've bought this for my new hens, went to a chicken shop and bought a large drinker and feeder yesterday - now need to decide what sort of chickens.

I have a fairly small garden and I grow lots of veg etc that I cant really fence off, so will be in the run most of the time - what sort of chickens is best to get?

They are mainly for my DD who is 3, as she loves chickens, and because it would be good to have some fresh eggs.

So, two of the same, or two different ones? I do not want white chickens (was attacked as a child by white bantams and scare me) lol

I have kept chickens before, I am a farmer kid, just dont know what breeds to go for now xx

OP posts:
LilyBolero · 20/04/2010 08:55

Three is a better number than two, generally speaking - especially as they like company, and if onedied then you wouldn't have the hassle of introducing another one which can be problematic.

Hybrids are your best bet for starting out, as they are reliable layers and generally nice temperaments.

You need to get chickens described as 'Point of Lay' pullets - this means chickens that are about to start laying. They will generally be 16-20 weeks old, and their combs and faces will be starting to redden up.

Have a look at this page for some pictures of the hybrids available. If you want different coloured eggs you will need different types!

We have 2 Bovan Goldlines who are very friendly, a Bluebelle who is a bigger bird, and very beautiful, Silver Link who I love, but is a white bird, a Black Rock (and she is a fabulous breed - so sturdy and healthy), and a Speckeldy who everyone loves. They all lay well, and are friendly to the children who love feeding them and collecting the eggs.

LilyBolero · 20/04/2010 08:56

The most important thing I think is to make sure you buy from a reputable breeder, choose the biggest examples of the breeds there (they will be the strongest). Where are you based?

Original poster
OnlyWantsOne · 20/04/2010 09:03

Im based in East Anglia, I wanted to get 3 but was worried about space - that means we would have one each (DP, DD and I)

Would smaller breeds be better? I'd love to just buy buff orpingtons but they are very heavy birds and I dont have room.

If I clipped the wings, would they be able to clear the 5ft fence into next door?

OP posts:
LilyBolero · 20/04/2010 11:35

Orpies are lovely but not great layers. I don't think they would be able to clear a 5ft fence, but a fox certainly would.

Looking at the coop you've got, I think 3 birds would be fine in there.

Original poster
OnlyWantsOne · 20/04/2010 11:42

Lilybolero - the foxes would more than likely go for the people who live over the road whos chickens are completely free range (some times they are in my garden!!) and who don't lock them up at night

re the fence just wondered if they could clear it as wouldnt want them going next door as neighbour would probably kill them just to prove the point. Would be nice to have them scratch round the garden when im there

OP posts:
ChickensHaveSinisterMotives · 20/04/2010 11:44

I agree that if you want eggs, hybrids are the way to go. However, if they will be mainly pets, have you considered pekins? They're small, friendly and don't destroy your garden.

jpg · 20/04/2010 12:04

There is a place in eye near diss - google stephen flory, they have loads of different types. Or try Cambridge poultry

Original poster
OnlyWantsOne · 20/04/2010 12:06

jpg are you a local too then thats very close to me

OP posts:
LilyBolero · 20/04/2010 14:38

Yes, would be a shame if your neighbour killed them!

I personally don't think you can be too careful where foxes are concerned - I remember reading that whereas you, the chicken keeper, have to be 100% lucky, the fox only needs to 'get lucky' the once and he has all the chickens.

meltedmarsbars · 20/04/2010 14:41

Clip the wings then you should be ok with the 5 foot fence. Its easy to do yourself - just clip one wing (unbalances bird so can't fly)

jpg · 22/04/2010 18:22

I do live in the East Anglian region yes

Fliight · 22/04/2010 18:29

Is it Ok to join in here please?

I'm nearly ready for our chooks, too, but worried about the fence clearing issue as well...so was interested to see you didn't think the Buffs could jump or fly that high?

Are they an especially large sort of hen? If so that's what we need! Have been struggling with wire and netting this afternoon!

thanks

Fliight · 22/04/2010 18:33

Ah! Yes!

sorry for hijacking! I never knew there were flightless chooks...brilliant invention

I was almost considering getting a few small penguins for a minute there.

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