10 Mistakes Every Chicken Keeper Must Avoid
10 Mistakes Every Chicken Keeper Must Avoid
Are you nervous about tending to your new flock? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered to help you get off to a great start. Keeping chickens is incredibly fun, but it can be daunting for beginners. One of the best ways to ensure a smooth experience is to familiarize yourself with the common mistakes in chicken keeping, so you can avoid making them.
There’s a lot to learn, and unlike typical pets, chickens live outdoors all year round and come with their unique set of requirements. Here are some common mistakes you can easily avoid to keep your chickens happy, healthy, and productive.
1. Not Fencing in the Garden
Chickens love to destroy gardens, whether it’s munching on strawberries or scattering mulch everywhere. The only way to keep them out is by installing a tall, sturdy fence. A free-range flock can ruin an entire season’s worth of hard work in a single afternoon. Consider also planting a garden specifically for your flock once you’ve secured your main garden.
2. Not Ensuring the Coop is Predator Proof
Predator attacks can be one of the most frustrating aspects of raising chickens. No matter where you live, there will always be predators lurking, both day and night. To avoid devastating surprises, make sure your coop is built like a fortress.
Tips for Predator Proofing Your Coop:
- Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire to keep out small predators.
- Seal any openings larger than the size of your thumb.
- Ensure all doors and windows are secure every night.
- Don’t forget about the roof; predators can attack from above.
- Install hardware cloth at the bottom of the run to deter digging predators.
3. Feeding the Wrong Foods
While treats like watermelon are great, certain foods must be avoided altogether. Chickens are omnivores and enjoy various types of food, but some can make them ill or even harm them.
Foods to Avoid:
- Sweets – candy, chocolate, desserts
- Leaves from tomato, potato plants, and rhubarb
- Citrus fruits
- Onions
- Caffeine or alcohol
- Fried foods
- Uncooked beans, pasta, or rice
- Junk food and highly processed foods
4. Using the Wrong Bedding/Litter
It can be tempting to use whatever is on hand for bedding, but the wrong type can lead to serious problems. Never use flat newspaper, as it’s slippery and not absorbent, causing leg issues in chicks. Cedar bedding is also a no-go, as it can harm their respiratory health.
Recommended Bedding:
- Use paper towels for young chicks learning to forage.
- Switch to pine shavings when they are a few weeks old for a more absorbent option.
5. Not Counting Your Chickens Each Night
If your flock free-ranges during the day, always count them before closing up the coop for the night. This simple step can alert you to any missing chickens, allowing you to search for them before darkness falls.
6. Putting a Heat Lamp in the Chicken Coop
Heat lamps can be more harmful than beneficial. They are known to cause fires and can fall into dry bedding, putting your flock at risk. Chickens have natural cold protection, so heating the coop is usually unnecessary. If you must provide extra warmth, consult a professional for safe options.
7. Not Providing Protection During Free-Range Time
Chickens are most vulnerable to predators while free-ranging. Here are some tips to keep them safe:
- Stay in the yard with them.
- Limit free-range time to a few hours a day.
- Consider getting a dog to deter predators.
- Install a strong fence around your property.
- Add a rooster for additional protection.
8. Starting with the Wrong Size Coop
Although tiny chicken coops may look cute, they are often impractical. Small coops can blow over easily, are more accessible to predators, and may not meet your needs as your flock grows. Always choose or build a larger coop than you currently need to accommodate future additions to your flock.
9. Keeping the Chick Brooder Too Cool or Too Hot
New chicken owners frequently make the mistake of not managing the temperature in the brooder. It should remain around 95°F (35°C) for optimal health. Use an infrared thermometer to check the temperature and adjust your heat source accordingly.
Signs of Temperature Issues:
- Chicks huddling together = too cold.
- Chicks spreading out and panting = too hot.
10. Not Preparing Properly for Weather Extremes
Chickens are hardy, but extreme temperatures can still pose challenges. Properly prepare your coop for winter by insulating it with extra bedding and blankets, and monitor your flock for signs of distress.
Summer Tips:
- Ensure fresh, cool water is always available.
- Provide frozen treats during heatwaves.
- Allow them to free-range for shade during hot days.
Conclusion
Raising chickens can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially when you know which common mistakes to avoid. With the right preparation, you’ll have a thriving flock that provides not only companionship but also delicious eggs. Remember, raising chickens doesn’t have to be a daunting task!
