Can someone give us tips on raising chickens for 4-H?

[Texas T]

We are getting them soon. This is our first year. I'd love to hear from experienced chicken raisers. ;) We've learned a lot so far, but I know there are some things that those with experience will just "Know" because of doing it.

Teresa

[HeatherH]

we did raise some chicks. Very fun! What do you want to know in particular?

Couple of tips. . .learned the hard way. . . .

DON'T put in a water dish made for mature chickens. At least one will drown.

DO keep them warm.

DO have your permanent home ready before they get home. We had very large chickens living in a wading pool in the garage, surrounded by plastic fencing, for several weeks, until dh built the Chicken Taj Mahal.

FIND one of your kids with a chicken passion (mine is 9!). get them to do all the work.


They won't start laying for about 6 months. Have you looked at McMurray Hatchery? They've been terrific. I'll try to post later about some good books. . .

We love our chickens!!!!!

(Jenny, Belle, Lindsay, Caroline, Do, Nut, and Egret)