Possible getting some hand-me-down chickens - what do I need to know??

7 replies

hippipotamiHasLost80lbs · 19/04/2010 16:09

There is the chance we are getting some chickens and their pen. A teacher at the school where I work can't keep them any more and offered them up in the staffroom today.
I have told her I may potentially be interested.

What do I need to know before I make my decision?

I think they (the two chickens) are around two years old. One of them has apparently not laid for 10 months.

Please, give me your briefest guide to chickens to help me make a (somewhat) informed decision.

OP posts:

beautifulgirls · 19/04/2010 17:16

mumsnet chicken boards may be of more use here

ditavionteased · 19/04/2010 18:49

as well as reading the chicken board on here have a look at omlet forum they have everything you ever want to know, chickens are the best pets ever, have them you won't regret it.

Vallhala · 19/04/2010 19:00

I adore chickens and my Lab and GSD are super with them, never chasing or harassing.

But sadly we have cats too, including she who must kill anything which moves...

ditavionteased · 20/04/2010 07:37

Val, chickens are usually bigger than cats (mine certainly are) and will give the cats a serious peck if they mess with them.

ouchitreallyhurts · 20/04/2010 08:05

we have 11 chickens and 4 cats. the cats steer clear although one ginger boy will come in of an evening and help me round 'em up to put to bed

they are great pets (chickens) and will eat a multitude of scraps. just need a good clean out once a week or so (and you can use their poo'ey straw for compost/fertiliser)

Madsometimes · 20/04/2010 10:52

Our puppy is below the chickens in pecking order too, in fact Scarlett is positively vindictive towards him! They will also chase cats.

Original poster

hippipotamiHasLost80lbs · 21/04/2010 08:15

Oh wow - I had forgotten about this thread in Pets (I started one in Chicken Keepers on beautifulgirls' advice)

Sound great - am now quite hopeful doggle (a somewhat deranged but loveable Cocker Spaniel) will be fine with them. He may just run around the garden barking for a bit as he won't understand what they are / why they are here / why they won't play with him.

I have not yet heard from said teacher so am not sure it is going to go ahead. Will keep you posted (and ask for more advice) when I do.

Thanks

OP posts:

Flip