Are you thinking about raising your own backyard chickens? You’re not alone! Backyard chicken keeping has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. Fresh eggs, natural pest control, and those funny chicken personalities make them the perfect gateway animal into homesteading.
But before you rush out to buy adorable fluffy chicks, let’s talk about what you actually need to start a chicken coop As someone who jumped into chicken keeping a bit unprepared (chicken math is real, y’all!), I want to save you from making the same mistakes
Why Start Raising Chickens?
First, let’s quickly cover why so many people are bringing chickens home
- Food security – Those fresh eggs taste amazing and you know exactly where they came from
- Reducing grocery bills – With egg prices continuing to climb, having your own layers makes financial sense
- Educational opportunity for kids (and adults!)
- Natural pest control as chickens happily gobble up bugs
- Entertainment value – chickens have unique personalities and are surprisingly fun to watch
Essential Supplies for Your First Chicken Coop
1. A Proper Chicken Coop
The most important thing you’ll need is, of course, a coop! This doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, but it does need to provide:
- Protection from predators – Secure walls, floor, and door that locks
- Shelter from weather – Keeps chickens dry and out of direct wind
- Proper ventilation – Air flow without drafts
- Adequate space – As a general rule of thumb:
- 3-4 square feet per bird inside the coop
- 10 square feet per bird if they’ll be confined to the coop
- 10-12 inches of roosting space per bird
You have two main options
Static Coop: A permanent structure that stays in one place. Better for cold climates where deep litter bedding helps keep chickens warm.
Mobile Coop: These can be moved around your property, allowing chickens to fertilize different areas. Great for those with some land who want to maximize the benefits of chicken keeping.
2. Proper Feeders and Waterers
Trust me on this one – regular bowls from your kitchen won’t cut it! Chickens are messy creatures who love to scratch, peck, and yes, poop everywhere. Proper feeders and waterers designed for poultry will:
- Keep food and water cleaner
- Reduce waste
- Prevent contamination
- Save you constant cleaning
For a small flock, I recommend starting with:
- One hanging feeder (holds several days’ worth of feed)
- A proper chicken waterer (either hanging or with a stand)
3. Food Storage Containers
Where there are chickens, there are inevitably rodents. When I first started, I just rolled up my feed bags and set them in the corner of my shed. Big mistake! Nothing attracts rats and mice like chicken feed.
Invest in:
- Food-grade storage bins with tight-fitting lids
- 20-gallon drums work great for most small flocks
- One for main feed, another for treats if you want
4. Roosting Bars
In the wild, chickens fly up into trees at night to stay safe from predators. This instinct remains strong in domestic chickens, who will seek out the highest spot in your coop to sleep.
If you don’t provide proper roosts, they’ll find alternatives – like your nesting boxes, feeders, or anywhere else they can perch. This means poop everywhere except where you want it!
A simple 2×4 mounted a couple feet off the ground works perfectly. The flat side gives them comfortable footing for cold nights.
5. Nesting Boxes
Without proper nesting boxes, your hens will lay eggs wherever they please – and trust me, they’ll pick the most inconvenient spots possible! Proper nesting boxes:
- Provide a dark, comfortable place for laying
- Keep eggs clean and easy to collect
- Prevent egg-eating behavior
- Reduce broken eggs
The rule of thumb is one nesting box for every 4-5 hens. They actually prefer to share!
6. Chicken Feed
Your chickens need proper nutrition to stay healthy and produce quality eggs. At minimum, you’ll need:
- Layer feed (16-18% protein) for egg-laying hens
- Starter feed if you’re beginning with chicks
- Grit – Chickens don’t have teeth! They need small pieces of stone to grind food in their gizzards
- Oyster shell or other calcium supplement for strong eggshells
I recommend buying feed from local feed stores rather than big box retailers – it’s often fresher and cheaper.
7. Bedding Material
You’ll need something to line the floor of your coop and nesting boxes. Options include:
- Pine shavings – My personal favorite, absorbent and affordable
- Straw – Good insulator but can harbor mites
- Sand – Easy to clean but heavy and can be cold
- Hemp bedding – Pricier but super absorbent
8. First Aid & Health Supplies
Even healthy flocks occasionally need intervention. Have these basics on hand:
- Food grade diatomaceous earth – Natural way to control external parasites
- Oregano essential oil – Natural antimicrobial for water
- Chicken saddles – Protects hens from overly amorous roosters
- Towel designated for chicken handling – Makes catching and examining birds easier
- Pumpkin seeds – Natural dewormer
9. Run or Fencing
While some people free-range their chickens, most need some sort of containment system:
- Permanent fenced run attached to coop
- Movable electric netting (like Gallagher or Premier 1)
- Chicken tractor (mobile coop with attached run)
The enclosure should protect from predators while giving chickens access to fresh grass and bugs.
10. Treats and Enrichment
Happy chickens are healthy chickens! Consider:
- Mealworms – High protein treat they go crazy for
- Scratch grains – A mixed treat (use sparingly)
- Hanging cabbage – Entertains chickens for hours
- Dust bath area – Mix sand, dirt, and DE for their natural “bathing”
11. Predator Protection
Predators are the #1 cause of chicken loss. Depending on your area, you may need:
- Hardware cloth (not chicken wire) for secure enclosures
- Solar-powered coop door that closes automatically at dusk
- Motion-activated lights or alarms
- Secure latches that raccoons can’t open
Planning Your Flock
Before you buy any chickens, consider:
How many chickens do you need?
Each hen lays approximately 4-5 eggs per week when in prime production. Calculate backward from how many eggs your family consumes.
Do you need a rooster?
Contrary to popular belief, hens will lay eggs without a rooster present. You only need a rooster if you want fertilized eggs for hatching. Many city ordinances prohibit roosters due to noise.
Which breeds are best for beginners?
Some beginner-friendly breeds include:
- Rhode Island Reds
- Buff Orpingtons
- Plymouth Rocks
- Australorps
Biosecurity Considerations
One thing I learned the hard way: biosecurity matters! Before bringing home new birds:
- Purchase from reputable sources (hatcheries or breeders)
- Quarantine new birds before introducing to your flock
- Have a plan for sick birds
I once had to cull my entire flock due to a respiratory virus brought in by new birds I didn’t quarantine. Learn from my mistake!
Seasonal Considerations
Your chicken keeping needs will change with the seasons:
Summer:
- Extra water sources
- Shade
- Ventilation
Winter:
- Insulation (but not airtight)
- Unfrozen water source
- Extra bedding
Getting Started on a Budget
If money’s tight, here’s what you can DIY or find secondhand:
- Coops can be converted from sheds, doghouses, or playhouses
- Feeders and waterers can be made from 5-gallon buckets
- Roosting bars can be branches or scrap lumber
- Nesting boxes can be repurposed milk crates or buckets
The only things I wouldn’t skimp on are predator-proof hardware and quality feed.
Final Thoughts
Starting a chicken coop might seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Remember that chickens have survived for thousands of years with basic care – they’re pretty resilient!
The most important things to provide are:
- Protection from predators
- Shelter from extreme weather
- Clean water and appropriate food
- Space to exhibit natural behaviors
Everything else can be upgraded as you go along. Start simple, learn as you grow, and most importantly – enjoy your chickens! They’re not just livestock; they become feathered members of the family who happen to pay rent in eggs.
Have you started your chicken journey yet? What supplies did you find most essential? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
What do chickens eat?
Chickens are omnivorous birds, which means they have a diverse diet that includes a variety of foods. A well-balanced diet is crucial for their health, egg production, and overall well-being. What you feed your chickens will significantly impact their health and egg production.
Correct feed = healthy chickens and eggs.
Poor feed = over/underweight chickens, illnesses, poor egg quality.
A good chicken feed will include amino acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, fiber, and quality protein. Chickens protein needs and feed type will differ according to their age.
Heres an overview of what chickens eat:
Commercial Chicken Feed:
- Starter Feed (0-6 weeks): This high-protein feed helps young chicks grow and develop properly.
- Grower Feed (6-18 weeks): Lower in protein than starter feed, this feed supports steady growth.
- Layer Feed (18 weeks and up): Contains essential nutrients for egg production, including calcium for strong eggshells.
- Broiler Feed (for meat birds): Specifically formulated for chickens raised for meat, providing balanced nutrition for rapid growth.
Scratch Grains
Whole grains like corn, barley, oats, and wheat can be scattered on the ground as a treat or supplement. Scratch grains are energy-rich and can help keep chick ens warm in colder weather.
Apart from this, I occasionally give them some treats, because why not??
Kitchen Scraps and Leftovers
Many kitchen scraps are safe for chickens, including fruit and vegetable peels, cooked rice, pasta, bread (in moderation), and non-citrus fruits.
Vegetables
Fresh vegetables like lettuce, kale, spinach, carrots, and cucumbers are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals.
Fruits
Chickens enjoy fruits like apples, berries, watermelon, and melon. Avoid giving them citrus fruits or pits from fruits.
Protein Sources
Insects, bugs, and worms are natural sources of protein for chickens. They love scratching and foraging for insects in the yard. Mealworms and earthworms can be provided as treats or supplements.
Greens
Chickens relish leafy greens such as lettuce, cabbage, and kale. Greens provide fiber and nutrients.
Calcium Supplements
Crushed oyster shells or eggshells can provide extra calcium, promoting strong eggshell formation.
Avoid These Foods
Chocolate, avocados, onions, garlic, citrus fruits, and highly processed or salty foods should be avoided, as they can harm chickens.
Read more: A complete guide on foods NOT to feed chickens and ducks
Grit
You must also add grit to their feed to help with digestion and oyster shells to keep their bones and eggshells strong.
And, of course, always have fresh, clean water available. A hen can easily drink, on average, 1 cup of water per day.
Remember that a balanced diet is crucial. While treats and scraps are enjoyable for chickens, they should not make up more than 10% of their overall diet.
Providing a commercial feed formulated for their specific life stage is essential to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for growth, egg production, and overall health.
HERE is a printable guide on what to feed and not to feed your flock.
Ensuring the well-being of your chickens is crucial for them as well as your enjoyment as a chicken keeper. Maintaining their health and wellness requires vigilance, proactive care, and an understanding of potential health concerns.
Parasites
External and internal parasites can cause discomfort, disease, and reduced egg production. Regularly inspect your chickens for signs of mites, lice, and worms. Symptoms may include feather loss, weight loss, lethargy, and pale combs.
Dust baths (oh how they love those!) and regularly cleaning the coop will help keep parasites down. I often spray all coop surfaces, nesting boxes, and even the chickens with my all-natural homemade mite and coop spray. Here is the recipe.
Bumblefoot
Bumblefoot is a staph infection where bacteria has entered the chickens foot through a cut or scrape. It starts with an infection in the foot or toes but can travel up the leg and be fatal if it spreads to other tissue & bones.
Signs that you need to look out for include limping and a puffy, swollen foot or toe, and sometimes even legs if the infection is severe. The most tell-tale sign would be a black scab where the infection is.
Respiratory Issues
Respiratory infections can spread quickly among chickens. Watch for signs like coughing, sneezing, wheezing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing.
Good ventilation, clean bedding, and avoiding overcrowding can help prevent respiratory ailments. Quarantine new chickens before introducing them to the flock to minimize disease transmission.
Digestive Problems
Chickens can experience digestive issues like impacted crops, sour crop, and egg-binding. Observe your chickens for signs of discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or unusual behaviors. Providing access to grit, offering probiotics, and ensuring a balanced diet can aid in preventing and managing these concerns.
Heat Stress and Cold Exposure
Extreme weather conditions can impact your chickens health. Heat stress in summer and cold exposure in winter can lead to distress and even death. Ensure your coop is well-ventilated and insulated, provide shade and water in hot weather, and safeguard against frostbite during colder months.
Egg-Related Problems
Abnormalities in egg production can indicate health issues. Vitamin deficiencies, parasites and infections, and stress can affect egg production or quality. Pay attention to eggshell quality, size, color, and the presence of blood spots. Offering oyster shells and maintaining a nutritious diet can help prevent eggshell issues.
Behavioral Changes
Changes in behavior, such as lethargy, isolation, or aggression, may signal underlying health problems. Monitor your chickens interactions and activities to detect any deviations from their usual patterns.
Caring for Chickens 101
As I mentioned, caring for chickens requires some planning, work, and ongoing commitment. But, if you got this far, I assume you are an animal lover like me and want the best for your flock!
The great thing is that caring for chickens is easy when you have a daily routine and stick to a schedule doing all the necessary tasks.
You wont be running around like a headless chicken.
Raising Backyard Chickens // Beginners Guide
FAQ
How do I start a chicken coop in my backyard?
When planning to start a chicken coop in your backyard, it’s important to assess and plan for the time commitment involved in maintaining the coop and caring for the chickens. Remember that consistent attention is crucial for keeping your flock healthy and productive while ensuring a clean living environment.
Should you set up a chicken coop?
Setting up a chicken coop is exciting, whether you’re new to raising chickens or looking to upgrade your current setup. A well-planned and thoughtfully designed chicken coop provides a safe, comfortable space for your hens to lay eggs, rest, and stay healthy.
What should be included in a chicken coop setup?
Here are some of the essentials to include in your chicken coop setup: Space: As mentioned earlier, each chicken needs enough space to move around and stretch its wings. Ventilation: Maintaining proper airflow is crucial for keeping the air fresh and minimizing respiratory issues.
Do you have a chicken coop must have list?
I wish I had a chicken coop must have list before getting chickens. That is partly my fault because the internet existed, but I didn’t use it that often. Every beginner chicken owner should seek out some form of chicken essentials checklist as they are preparing for their first flock. Equip yourself for chicken keeping!
How to choose a backyard chicken coop construction?
When considering backyard chicken coop construction, it’s essential to choose suitable materials and design features that focus on sustainability, safety, and security for your flock. As chickens forage in your backyard, they help to control pests like insects and small rodents.
How do I design a chicken coop?
Choosing the right materials is also crucial for the longevity of your coop. When planning and designing your chicken coop, consider the following: Location: Choose a spot with good drainage and access to sunlight. Size: Plan enough space for the number of chickens you intend to raise.
What do I need to start a chicken coop?
How many eggs will 6 chickens lay in a week?
What is the 90 10 rule for chickens?
Our top advice is to follow a 90/10 rule for laying hens: 90% complete layer feed and 10% chicken treats to help provide a balanced diet to your birds.
Is a chicken’s first egg ok to eat?