Keeping chickens can be a rewarding hobby, providing you with fresh eggs and lively company in the garden. Chickens are relatively low-maintenance animals, but they do require proper care to keep them healthy, happy, and productive. Here’s a basic guide to caring for chickens in your own garden.

1. Provide Secure Housing

A secure coop is essential for keeping your chickens safe from predators and harsh weather. The coop should be spacious, well-ventilated, and include nesting boxes for laying eggs. It’s also important to have perches where chickens can roost at night. Make sure the coop has a sturdy door and locks, as foxes and other predators are known for breaking in. Ideally, the coop should be cleaned weekly to keep it dry and free from droppings.

2. Create a Safe Outdoor Space

Chickens love to forage and explore, so giving them outdoor space to roam is essential. A fenced-in run attached to the coop provides a safe area where they can scratch, peck, and exercise. If you allow your chickens to free-range, make sure the area is secure from predators. Keeping an eye on them while they roam helps ensure they’re safe and prevents them from wandering too far.

3. Feed a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is vital for healthy chickens and quality egg production. Layer pellets are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. You can supplement this with fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional treats like mealworms. Avoid feeding chickens food scraps that are too salty or high in sugar, as these can harm their health. Fresh water should always be available, and it’s best to change it daily.

4. Regular Health Checks

Healthy chickens are active, alert, and have bright feathers. Check your chickens regularly for signs of illness, such as lethargy, a change in eating habits, or unusual feather loss. Mites and lice are common parasites, so keep an eye on your chickens’ feathers and skin. Regular cleaning of the coop, adding diatomaceous earth to nesting boxes, and providing dust baths can help prevent infestations.

Key Takeaways:

• Secure housing protects chickens from predators and the elements.
• Outdoor space allows for natural behaviours like foraging and pecking.
• A balanced diet keeps chickens healthy and supports egg production.
• Health checks help catch any issues early and keep chickens in good condition.

With a bit of care and attention, chickens can thrive in your garden, offering fresh eggs and plenty of entertainment. Taking the time to meet their basic needs will ensure they live a healthy, happy life while enriching your outdoor space.