Start here
New to backyard chickens, or sorting out a problem with the flock you already have? This page puts the most useful guides in order, so you can start with the question in front of you.
Your first three steps
- Check the rulesLook up your town or HOA limits on flock size, roosters and where a coop can sit before you buy anything. Browse Getting Started
- Size the coop and runWork out floor space, run area, roosts and nest boxes for the number of hens you want, then add room to grow. Read the guide
- Plan the first six weeksSet up the brooder, heat, feed and water before the chicks arrive, and know what each week brings. Read the guide
Essential guides
Read these first; they answer the questions that come up in every new flock.
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How to Raise Baby Chicks: The First Six Weeks, Week by WeekWhat chicks need from the day they arrive until they are feathered: heat, space,…
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What Size Chicken Coop Do You Need? Space for 4, 6, 10 and 20 HensThe floor space, run area, roost length and nest boxes to plan for, worked…
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Winter Chicken Coop Checklist: What to Do Before the First Hard FreezeA short list of jobs to finish in fall so the flock stays dry,…
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How to Keep Chickens Warm in Winter Without Adding HeatHealthy adult chickens keep themselves warm. Your job is to keep them dry, out…
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Brooder Temperature Chart: How Long Do Chicks Need a Heat Lamp?Chicks need supplemental heat for about six weeks. The week-by-week temperatures, how to measure…
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What Do Baby Chicks Eat? Starter Feed, Water and TreatsChicks need a starter feed with 18 to 20 percent protein and clean water.…
Browse by topic
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Getting StartedRules, costs and first decisions before you bring birds home.
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Coops & RunsSizing, layouts, kits and predator-proofing by flock size.
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Seasonal CareWhat to do in the coop each season, from heat waves to hard freezes.
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Chicks & BroodingBrooders, heat, feed and moving chicks outside.
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BreedsChoosing breeds by climate, temperament and egg colour.
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Feeding & TreatsFeed, water, safe kitchen scraps and what to avoid.
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Health & BehaviorMolting, egg problems, pecking order and when to call a vet.
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Gear GuidesDoors, feeders, waterers and heaters compared on the details that matter.
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Gifts & DecorCoop signs, seasonal decor and gifts for chicken keepers.
Care by season
What changes in the coop through the year.
How these guides are made
Our research processCare advice is checked against university extension and veterinary sources, every guide is dated, and no brand pays to be included.