Raising Backyard Chickens // Beginners Guide

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  • Опубліковано 7 лют 2025
  • On the fence about getting backyard chickens? In this beginners guide will walk you through the ways to get baby chicks or pullets, when to get your chickens, chicken supplies, chicken feed, and general chicken care from birth through adulthood. I'll also cover chicken coop designs and supplies and how to set up a chicken coop and chicken run.
    RELATED VIDEOS
    Tour of My Last Chicken Coop: • Backyard Chickens - Ch...
    MENTIONED PRODUCTS/SUPPLIES
    1. Cardboard Box
    2. Heat Lamp Bulb: amzn.to/45LqqLR
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    3. Pine Shavings: amzn.to/45NTId8
    4. Feeder& Waterer: amzn.to/3qp5lXw
    5. Chick Vitamins & Electrolytes: amzn.to/42CbDkd
    6. Chicken grit (if no access to dirt) : amzn.to/42pz7c1
    7. Chicken Coop Water Dispenser: amzn.to/3WPKnxd
    8. Food Bowls: amzn.to/3MMXV8c
    FOOD
    Starter Food - first 8 weeks
    Grower Food- 9 - 18 weeks
    Layer Food- 19 weeks and on
    What Chickens Shouldn't Eat (I'm sure this isn't COMPLETE, but covers most common)
    Avocado pit and peel
    Chocolate or candy
    Citrus
    Green potato skins
    Dry, uncooked beans, pasta, rice
    Junk food
    Moldy or rotten food
    Tomato/nightshade leaves/plants
    Rhubarb

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,1 тис.

  • @authorcharlieboring
    @authorcharlieboring Рік тому +640

    You learn a lot raising chickens. I got my first broody hen and 10 eggs when I was about 10 years old in 1953. When the chickens started to hatch, I found enough soda bottles to sell for enough money to buy an addition 12 chickens from the the local feed store and when it was dark, I placed these under the hen and she accepted them. This small bantam hen raised 22 chicks. What did I learn? The love of a mother for babies is stronger than life.

  • @FosterFromTheAshes
    @FosterFromTheAshes 10 місяців тому +65

    My littles were gifted baby chicks for Easter, and now I’m tasked with the obligation of crash courses to keep them alive and make it a decent experience. This video really helped me shift my perspective and recognize the “possibilities”. Thank you so much!

    • @lordtachanka903
      @lordtachanka903 9 місяців тому +16

      I’m happy that you’re being positive about it but that seems like a really inconvenient gift, like “HAPPY EASTER, go do a bunch of research or the blood is on your hands” idk but me personally I’d be kinda pissed about it lol (I’d still keep them tho haha)

    • @georgenevy
      @georgenevy 4 місяці тому +1

      😂

    • @denisejohnson6328
      @denisejohnson6328 26 днів тому

      Your video was well organized as well as informative. I have 3 chicks that I hatched in an incubator. I plan to maintain them. In a few months, I will hatch 2-3 more. Only time will tell but I want them all as pets and egg producers. However, I do not want to maintain beyond 5-6 chickens at any given time. Thank you for this helpful video.

  • @marleighf3681
    @marleighf3681 Рік тому +209

    I just started keeping chickens. I started doing that to help feed my family and to rely less on the grocery store. I didn’t realize how much fun they really would be. I have some sassy hens that crack me up! I love my chickens and enjoy every moment with them😁

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +11

      They really are fun to have!

    • @princeanjogrewal
      @princeanjogrewal Рік тому +1

      hello im also going to keep chickens , i dont know how many i should start, is it good to start with 35pcs chicks? or lower??

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

    • @smangosmooly9538
      @smangosmooly9538 9 місяців тому

      @@princeanjogrewalwhat did u end up starting with lol? i got 10

    • @khululwamampunye5336
      @khululwamampunye5336 5 місяців тому +3

      Hi guys I'm so excited I'm waiting for my 50 chicks next wk I've learn a lot 😅dankie

  • @KeithWheelerBooks
    @KeithWheelerBooks 10 місяців тому +106

    Hey Brian, since we’re focusing deep on being self-sufficient, I’d love to see a video on how to build a simple chicken coop. Possibly for free or little money, etc.

    • @TheLyingFigure
      @TheLyingFigure 5 місяців тому +3

      There's a few guides showing how to build free coops with older pallets. People on Craigslist try to get rid of pallets every so often you'll just have to sort out ones that are chemically treated but they'll be marked as such.

    • @KeithWheelerBooks
      @KeithWheelerBooks 5 місяців тому +1

      @@TheLyingFigurethanks. I’d also love to see what Brian uses as a compost “container.”

    • @amarisabradford3855
      @amarisabradford3855 4 місяці тому

      @@KeithWheelerBooksI’ve definitely seen compost bins made out of pallets as well!

  • @johncole3098
    @johncole3098 10 місяців тому +53

    My wife bought chicks on a whim last night, which stressed me out. Your video has made me way less worried. I’m glad to know this won’t be that crazy an amount of work. Thank you!

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  10 місяців тому +8

      Super easy!

    • @ontariogardening
      @ontariogardening 10 місяців тому +11

      I love that you are just embracing them! Too funny. I am not sure I would be alive to tell the story if I did that to my spouse. Should we test the waters? Hmm.. lol. have so much fun!

    • @krisgomez1796
      @krisgomez1796 6 місяців тому +1

      I’m glad to know my wife is as crazy as yours and I am not alone lol

    • @rattlecat5968
      @rattlecat5968 6 місяців тому +2

      🤣 So funny that you mentioned the chicks were bought on a whim! I bought six chicks, a week ago, *ON A WHIM,* and, well, because they were 50% off and I can not resist a good sale! 🤣
      They really aren't very difficult to properly care for. Food, water, clean shelter and elbow room. 🤷 The cats that the neighbors left behind when they moved demand more than that of me... *and I didn't even ask for them!* They just sort of showed up at my porch and *refuse to leave!*
      Wishing us all luck in raising our girls to be healthy, happy *and productive* members of society!

    • @danicahaspel3276
      @danicahaspel3276 4 місяці тому

      @@rattlecat5968and particularly in the night 😂😂

  • @marygrott8095
    @marygrott8095 Рік тому +189

    Yes, please, more chicken keeping videos for beginners. As someone who eventually wants to have chickens. this was very helpful. I'm looking forward to the day I'm a chicken keeper!!

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

    • @boydgriffiths6215
      @boydgriffiths6215 7 місяців тому +2

      How did you go? Did you end up getting some chooks?

  • @deliah49
    @deliah49 8 днів тому +3

    Great information and straight to the point! To all new small backyard UA-camrs gather here!

  • @sieglindesmith9092
    @sieglindesmith9092 10 місяців тому +18

    So nice to have instruction from a person who obviously likes the chickens and appreciates them - keeps them (and keeps them happy) not just for utilitarian reasons. A friend is going to pass on two young adult chickens to us and this video is a big help on how to keep them.

  • @nchestercountynews4955
    @nchestercountynews4955 Рік тому +8

    little Velociraptors, grow extra kale in the garden, they love it. and lawnmower clippings

  • @Peachy08
    @Peachy08 Рік тому +34

    Keeping chickens is so so easy!! Not only is it easy but they are so entertaining 😊

  • @bijou737
    @bijou737 Рік тому +64

    Very informative. Many years ago I had a pair of ducks. If you ever want some fowl that make good pets, I'd encourage you to get a pair (a male and a female) of ducks. The males aren't aggressive and noisy like roosters. They will keep your gardens free of snails, slugs, and other pests, and they are actually a little affectionate. The female will lay eggs...they are good eating and make the fluffiest cake batter. Thanks for another great vid!😊

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +8

      I’ve been thinking about ducks. Soon 😁😉

    • @BlessedMarket-u3v
      @BlessedMarket-u3v Рік тому

      😊

    • @lynncarter4964
      @lynncarter4964 7 місяців тому

      I heard that ducks are too "hard on" the females, so you can't let her get stressed by the males constant need for her, if you know what I mean. I'd keep 2 females, and get more eggs. 2 males are good as pets, and company for eachother. One duck alone will get depressed. Please adopt a male duck, they are not being adopted as they are not necessary for eggs.

  • @Pepper-prepper
    @Pepper-prepper Рік тому +44

    I’m a new chicken papa. My babies are 6 weeks, and I’ve had them 4 week and can’t wait to move them to the coop/run I built for them. Would love to see more chicken content!

  • @nicholast8217
    @nicholast8217 8 місяців тому +6

    This guy's advice is 100% solid

  • @julzb6047
    @julzb6047 Рік тому +7

    Great starter vid! ❤️
    We've had chickens for 2 years now, and I can't imagine life without them. They are SO much fun. And with the increase in egg prices, it's nice to have our own. PLUS - they help with so many other things in the garden - like free chicken manure, they help mix the compost pile, they help with pest control, and they eat our kitchen scraps. Plus - they're adorable and hilarious.
    One feeder we JUST switched to is a Treadle Feeder, because we have a mice issue. We're hoping this new feeder will be a little less messy, and reduce or eliminate the mice issue.
    A couple other things to consider - hens are NOT silent, by any means. If you haven't heard it, look up the "egg song".
    One thing to mention about the coop - make sure it's surrounded with sturdy material and predator proof - especially at night. Foxes, racoons, opossums, cats... etc.
    Additionally, we've had to learn to be our own home vet, so-to-speak. Bumble foot can be an issue, and will need to be addressed asap.
    I love to see other people's set-ups! Helps give us ideas for ours. Keep the chicken vidz comin'!

    • @davej.2761
      @davej.2761 Рік тому +1

      Could you please explain in more detail what to expect 'sound-wise' when raising chickens? Also, where do you live? Are chickens permitted in your area by the municipality?

    • @julzb6047
      @julzb6047 Рік тому +1

      ​​​@@davej.2761 Fortunately the "loudness" it's really only around the time a chicken lays an egg, but that can be spread out throughout the day. And not ALL our chickens sing the egg song... but most do. It's loud enough that we can hear it inside the house a little. We've talked to our surrounding neighbors about it, and they've all said it's not bad, and that they actually like hearing the chickens. (Hopefully they're not just being nice.) It's not as loud as a rooster, but it's not quiet either. Try looking up some UA-cam videos of the "egg song" - Hopefully that will give you some idea of how loud it is. Otherwise, their little clucks and peeps and purrs are pretty quiet, and pretty adorable, in my opinion.
      We live in a suburb outside Denver, Colorado. In our city, we don't have to have a permit, but we're restricted on the number we can have, and we're required to have a certain number of square feet of coop space per bird. And we're not allowed to have roosters. I know it's different everywhere, so you'll have to look up your local ordinances.
      Hope I covered all your questions. Good luck!!!

  • @lakeishagalloway2983
    @lakeishagalloway2983 8 місяців тому +11

    I brought chicks in April 2024 and am learning as I go. This video is great. Thank you

  • @sedoniadragotta8323
    @sedoniadragotta8323 15 годин тому

    What a Ponce just a video to show off his fancy coop. I built mine out of wood I got for free .

  • @Nana_Wright
    @Nana_Wright Рік тому +9

    I watch all of your videos, no matter the subject! Now you have me wanting chickens! I live in the city limits and our county community is fighting for our rights to have chickens. Hopefully....one day...we too may have them.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +2

      Thank you! Good luck 🙂

    • @suzanbak1
      @suzanbak1 Рік тому +1

      Some have small indoor quail for eggs.. it’s a start ;)

    • @myworke-mail339
      @myworke-mail339 8 місяців тому

      Our city recently passed an ordinance to allow us to have three hens, but no roosters... But, alas, my HOA still forbids it. I don't plan on ever buying in an HOA again, unless I am the HOA. LOL. Hope you do not have an HOA. God bless!!!

    • @myworke-mail339
      @myworke-mail339 8 місяців тому

      @@suzanbak1 Indoors? Aren't they noisy? How many do you keep indoors??? Hmmmm. That would be great for people who have HOAs. (I plan on ditching mine ASAP.)

  • @AnimalKingdomWonders-h3o
    @AnimalKingdomWonders-h3o 3 дні тому

    🐔This video is so helpful! I just started raising chickens and felt a bit overwhelmed, but this guide really boosts my confidence. Thank you for sharing!

  • @robine916
    @robine916 Рік тому +16

    Eggcellant video! Very concise and informative. I would like to mention you do need ventilation in the winter even in snowy/colder climates to prevent moisture build up. That can cause frostbite on toes and combs. Most find a bit of screening in a window up high on the wall helps to alleviate the issue.🥚🥚🥚

  • @Darkeiser.7
    @Darkeiser.7 12 днів тому

    Well this is the start. Gotta make the wit happy 😊

  • @jtharp9265
    @jtharp9265 Рік тому +20

    Yes, please, more chicken content . We have been wanting to get chickens 🐔 the past several years .
    Thank you so much
    GREAT CONTENT 🙏🙏🙏🐔

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +3

      Will do!!

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @marilynwithrow5665
    @marilynwithrow5665 Рік тому +1

    Omg I am so happy that you are doing a video on chickens. It is true they all have their own personalities. I have a Wyandotte hen that anytime I am outside she is stuck to me like glue. ( She has the personality of a dog 😂) She will wait for me every night to carry her to the coop and put her to bed. She has to say good night to me every night which makes it really hard to go on vacation but I love her personality so much.

  • @s.jensen1492
    @s.jensen1492 Рік тому +8

    I don’t have or should say can’t have chickens but I’m fascinated by those who do and would love to. So yes, Brian I watch all your videos and I love each one ! Thank you for all your hard work on each episode!

  • @jacquelinejoseph4376
    @jacquelinejoseph4376 День тому

    I learned a lot. Planning on having a chicken farm in a hot climate.👍❤️

  • @frances623
    @frances623 Рік тому +5

    I had a small farm in the 80’s , I loved my chickens. I yearn to have them again. Predators are a big problem here in rural Ohio.

  • @sandraoconnor5700
    @sandraoconnor5700 Рік тому +2

    Don’t plan on raising chickens, but do plan on watching your every video❤❤❤ Love y’all too❤❤❤

  • @toddevans7262
    @toddevans7262 Рік тому +4

    Holy Synchronicity Brian! I’m on Long Island and just spent my first full day with my 6 girls free ranging in the backyard while I was gardening. They’re the first chickens I have ever raised. They’re about 9 weeks old. 6 different breeds, all with very different chickenalities. I noticed that a lot of comments were about not being allowed to have chickens. If you really want to raise them, go have a face to face w/ the local authorities and ask if you can get a waiver to raise them. I think a lot of towns are considering allowing. I had to ask my direct neighbors if they would be okay. Both said yes, so I was good to go as long as nobody complains. The girls were all back in their coop on their own by late afternoon. I have a prefabricated coop similar to your grey example in the video except it’s red and white. I had a bunch of 1 1/2”thk x 2’w x 5’ long bluestone slabs laying around and set them around the coop perimeter to prevent predators from digging in. The slabs are so heavy, I can hardly move them. Raccoons, cats are nighttime predators that I worry about. Hawks are a daytime concern. My yard is fenced in but not impenetrable.

  • @ZacAtkin
    @ZacAtkin 2 місяці тому +1

    I go my first hen when I was 12. We got 5 hens they tought me alot about responsibility so that's why I recommend for any one that still has not decided😊

  • @pjsviking
    @pjsviking Рік тому +3

    LOVED this video - you KISSed it really well. It reminded me of when I was able to have chickens - life situation has changed :O). My husband built a passive solar salt-box coup from industrial scraps from a scrap yard, so, next to nothing. We didn't have access to the pine shavings but had lots of hay and I actually didn't mind cleaning out the coup every few weeks - the decomposition helped during the winter months too - minus 40F :O) I love the way you summed up the environmental and ecological advantages, not just those eggier tasting eggs with yolks that made my lemon meringue pies look like I'd used food colouring :O) You summed up and kept everything simple, cheap and fun, and......get one of the most complete foods out of it all. The chicks shared a porch off the living room, our children were pretty young then - they loved the experience. Thanks - watch no matter what you're sharing. You know your stuff with fact and experience based information and present it so well. Take care, keep it up!!

  • @debc.8925
    @debc.8925 Рік тому +1

    I have no intent of raising chickens right now, I do watch all of your videos and ummm, I love you, too😉.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому

      Thank you! 😊

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @kimmartin2522
    @kimmartin2522 11 місяців тому +4

    This is by far the best video I've seen for a beginner. Thank you for making this, I'll be getting myself some chicks!!

  • @uninico
    @uninico 20 днів тому

    We have 3 silkies joining our family in 6 weeks as pullets. Thank you for making it so much less scary!

  • @terrybouck5192
    @terrybouck5192 Рік тому +6

    Can’t have chickens but this was really informative and interesting. You did a great teaching job!

  • @TheFarmingDiaries1
    @TheFarmingDiaries1 Місяць тому

    The moment at 8:17 made me re-watch it a few times, it was so great!

  • @iwanttobelieve5970
    @iwanttobelieve5970 Рік тому +41

    I have 8 hens. I ordered 15, one died. I sold 6. I had chickens probably 16-17 years ago so I'm relearning everything. But the egg prices at the beginning of the year got me back into chickens just as 2020 got me back into gardening.

  • @madnicmomify
    @madnicmomify Рік тому +2

    I worked with my city and they approved up to 6 hens but even though you have to build a predator proof coop/run, we also have to have a privacy fence either around them or the property to keep those runaway dogs from them. These rules came from the 2 councilwomen who stated" I know nothing about chickens". So here I sit jealous but happy for everyone who gets to keep them. I don't have 6K to convert my split rail fence to a privacy fence😢

  • @christinem4655
    @christinem4655 Рік тому +3

    Perfect timing! I'm going to pick up my first chicks today. Can't wait.

  • @pmw365
    @pmw365 5 місяців тому +2

    Definitely more chicken videos,, you wouldn't happen to know about rabbits and chickens living together and things about rabbits or turkeys?? Great video man!!

  • @terrisaunders7036
    @terrisaunders7036 Рік тому +9

    We just bought 8 chicks about 1 month ago. My brother is building a coup ( hope it is ready soon). We are very excited about it both for the fresh eggs perspective but also my grandkids are hoping they will be pets too. I’m hoping to incorporate their waste in my garden but also I generally have home grown produce that goes to waste because we just can’t eat it fast enough. Win/win. They are getting too big now for the brooder now so they are going outside for most of the day. They are fun and definitely have different personalities.

  • @preshussunshine
    @preshussunshine Рік тому

    So Happy, I put them in a rabbit hutch, one jump onto the edge while I was cleaning out the wood shavings, I put her right back in there and closed the top.

  • @lifecontinueson2020
    @lifecontinueson2020 Рік тому +3

    I found out about your channel right before you moved liked the video I watched so I subscribed and started as far back as I could go and started watching. Now that I am all caught up I watch everything you upload. Love your channel ❤️

  • @LittleLady633
    @LittleLady633 Рік тому +1

    Well, I fit under the one that just loves your video. Lol.. per city rules, I can't have chickens we are too close to neighbors. If we lived just one block south we could have them.

  • @brittawrolson5936
    @brittawrolson5936 Рік тому +12

    Another great, informative video! I raised chickens years ago (not since my husband passed) and they were fun. Living in northern Canada, they were raised as meat birds rather than egg layers. We raised 50 per season. The best tasting food. I would love to have egg laying hens, but it is just not economical to heat a building during the 6-7 months of winter.

  • @darla123
    @darla123 Рік тому +2

    I live in the country, no HOA, no restrictive covenants!!!! Love it. My next door neighbor has chickens, and at least three roosters. They bring us eggs occasionally. One thing you did not mention, the hens make noise too! Sometimes, they are louder than the roosters. I don't hear the roosters anymore, you get used to the noise. I want to have chickens at our next house, so I appreciate this video, and would appreciate further teaching in this area. And I watch all of your videos, and I love you too. 🙂

  • @crystalrogers7175
    @crystalrogers7175 Рік тому +4

    I think you did a great job of laying down the basics! I am relatively new to raising chickens. I had 2 for a year that my daughter basically gave me and fell in love! We had some unfortunate tragedy and a few house moves. Now I have 4 chickens, about 9 wks old. I hope to have many more someday but these ladies keep me plenty busy for now. 😊 Thanks for sharing!

  • @Phil-nw1cc
    @Phil-nw1cc Рік тому +1

    I haven't missed a video since I started watching. I want chickens so I can have my own fresh eggs every day. Plus it will help save me some money.

  • @christian5707
    @christian5707 Рік тому +38

    Once you get chickens you understand “chicken math”. I started with 15 last year, I just got another buff Brahma pullet a few months ago and I had a broody hen who hatched out 3 more chicks . Most of our flock is super friendly to the point they jump in our laps and take naps just like a lap dog. When I’m out working in the yard I generally have a them all around me plus 3 dogs and 2 cats. It saddens me to see how chickens are kept in commercial settings. I’ll never eat a store bought egg again for that reason. My flock which includes 1 rooster (who is a great guy, he takes the best care of his flock and even the new chicks. And friendly with people! ) is totally free range at the moment but after dealing with all the poop and of course the destruction to our garden,we will be constructing a fenced area for them in the fall. We will give them ample space to roam though because they are truly so happy when they free range and it kills me a little bit to take that from them. ❤

  • @Lyla-s3l
    @Lyla-s3l Рік тому +1

    we have never had chickens be for so it is nice
    to know these things ☺

  • @donnahurder4665
    @donnahurder4665 Рік тому +3

    Watch all your videos! Don't have any dirt areas anymore😢. Gardening in waist level gardening boxes now. But sure do enjoy learning everything you have to offer.
    Your book has been very helpful.
    Thanks!

  • @earthladyadventures5018
    @earthladyadventures5018 Рік тому

    I used to have chickens before we moved to Tennessee ❤I miss my chickens. And can’t wait until we move to our forever home and we can get established.❤

  • @cynthiadoe3096
    @cynthiadoe3096 Рік тому +11

    Great video!! Thanks to you and a couple other creators who raise chickens I am approaching my one year anniversary as a chicken mom! One of my best thanks to them! Mine have been so therapeutic, a perfect way to balance out a stressful career. And my plants have never been happier either. They are seriously one of the best things I have done for myself. Thank you!!

  • @justrenee6154
    @justrenee6154 Рік тому +1

    I have no desire to have chickens, although I’d love a cute chicken coop!! And I almost skipped watching this video but I so look forward to the videos, I watched anyways and loved it!! I learned so much!! But still don’t want chickens… just more of your videos!! They make my day better!! ❤

  • @christyw2010
    @christyw2010 Рік тому +3

    Husband & I watch EVERY video! We love them. Been contemplating 🐓🐓🐓’s and looking forward to your breed info! 🥚🥚🥚🥚🥚

  • @Jesus.Freak.N.Ketovore
    @Jesus.Freak.N.Ketovore Рік тому +1

    I have desired to have chickens for some time now. Can't convince my wife to do so. She says she is afraid of being chased by them! Lol!! Appreciate your content! Be safe and God bless!

    • @dongallagher7756
      @dongallagher7756 Рік тому

      she would fall in love with the chicks. When they get older, they will know her and love her too.

  • @lesleywilliams323
    @lesleywilliams323 Рік тому +3

    Great video…. Thank you….. not getting chickens, but it’s still interesting to learn🌸

  • @rogersaade7989
    @rogersaade7989 Рік тому

    i considering putting chicken out to eat the thousands of grasshopper that are eating my newly planted figs trees. your video was simply the best i have seen on the basics. wow! thank you. please keep em coming.

  • @FantasySports101
    @FantasySports101 Рік тому +4

    Love the chicken content requesting to see more! Haven’t purchased any yet, but watching these videos makes me consider it.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому

      I’m on it!

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @harveybyars8655
    @harveybyars8655 Місяць тому

    I had chickens when I was 7-9 years old. I bought 2 banny hens and a rooster. I thought I was a big chicken farmer. Then when they had some babies I was over the moon. I knew exactly how to take care of them. Now I don’t remember anything about them, but as soon as I get to move back to the country I’m getting some more chickens

  • @melissaedwards498
    @melissaedwards498 Рік тому +2

    More chicken related videos please!.. like how much and what to feed different ages of chickens ❤

  • @traryvery8851
    @traryvery8851 Рік тому +1

    I enjoyed watching this. Covered a lot. Love keeping chickens. I assume that you pick up the food dishes in the evening and you said that scraps are eaten during the day. Just for those who don’t realise it, food in open feeders and scraps should not be left overnight or you may encourage a rat fiesta. We use rat proof feeders to save time and give them scraps with plenty of time for them to be eaten up before evening. Ratties can get into a coop and run if they want to unless it is completely surrounded with rat proof mesh, which we don’t have because they have a big area, so we have just made it less attractive for rats to come into our yard.
    We use shredded hemp fibre in the coop area and it is very very absorbent and lasts really well in a deep litter style arrangement though it may be hard to find or too expensive if cost is the most important factor. Happy chicken keeping.

  • @jamesnelson6513
    @jamesnelson6513 Рік тому +4

    There is an issue with large rat snakes. I punched the ticket on at least a half dozen in the last year. And if you have mice you could have a problem with copperheads.

  • @creative227
    @creative227 Рік тому +2

    I currently have 10 Cochins in a brooder, (I am a first timer with chickens)5 weeks old. Coop is ready, I built it myself. I purchased a chicken run from Amazon, 12x9 and am upgrading the fencing around it to make it predator proof.
    I’m just waiting for the chicks to have all their feathers, I figure it will be about 2 weeks from now.
    From everything I have read and watched the number one thing is making their coop and yard predator proof. The food and water are easy.
    I live outside Atlanta and we have almost every predator, coyotes, foxes, opossums, raccoons, snakes, owls, hawks…
    And they all want to eat chickens.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +2

      Yes. Predator proofing is so important. Good luck to you and your chicks. You’re gonna have so much fun!!

  • @amyflewelling9795
    @amyflewelling9795 Рік тому +3

    We got 7 hens and a rooster in April, and I'm just learning about how to care for them now! They are definitely very easy, but I'm so glad I found your video! Great information, and I learned a lot I didn't know, even having them for 6 months now 😊

    • @LevysCuisine
      @LevysCuisine 7 місяців тому

      Hello . Can you share where you got your rooster from? Thanks

  • @candicecole1097
    @candicecole1097 Рік тому +1

    Love you Brian. Eggs not so much.
    Guilty- I watch ALL your videos. Sometimes more than once.

  • @debrajones7349
    @debrajones7349 Рік тому +6

    Loved this video, more please. QUESTION: do pullets bond with you as well as if you bought day olds? FYI: I watch EVERY video, on BOTH channels, as soon as I see them come out! ♥️ Another FYI😂 referenced your book again today!

  • @ericdavis1660
    @ericdavis1660 7 місяців тому +1

    You nailed it! I produced videos of every description for over two-decades; to include high-end commercial spots, corporate media, political ads and network news, (before those became indistinguishable) feature segments, loction remotes, on and on, You covered a single topic concisely, with an even pace and clarity throughout. You did exactly what you said you wanted to do at the top, and then did it. Few people know how hard that is. Fewer actually do it. Excellent work!

  • @phenixwars1
    @phenixwars1 Рік тому +5

    Great video! I can't have chickens cause I rent, but I watch all of your videos because they're just so fun and I do learn something in pretty much every video even if I don't need to use it for now. Maybe one day. I actually always wondered about the salmonella on the eggs issue, if it even really is an issue. I'd be curious to learn about that and if you need to wash your hands after handling etc. Maybe in another video.

  • @k.r.1069
    @k.r.1069 8 місяців тому

    AWESOME! I've wanted chickens for fresh eggs for YEARS! Now, I'm so excited! GREAT VIDEO, easy to understand. THANK YOU! We have farmers, even a friend has his grandkids who on an "honor system" sell a dozen eggs for just $4! Another group of people send out texts stating they have up to 5,000 EGGS/DAY & charge $3/DOZEN! Compared 2 grocery store eggs - it's GREAT! I learned if an egg shows a dome when cracked, it is more fresh! I buy organic, free-range, but want my own eggs! We have 1 acre but in a town of approx. 50,000, I want my chicken coup in the back where no1 can see it! Have lots of dirty, ants, bugs, rocks, & I learned so much else! THANK YOU! I'm almost 60 yr old woman & can't build my own chicken coup but know a contractor (who's the 1 w/grandkids selling eggs on the honor system) who can build one 4 me. I'm so excited now!! I took screenshots & added notes to get/keep all info, & subscribed 2 ur channel. I'm growing potatoes easily! Live in SW so gardening is HARD here, but potatoes we 4get 2 eat n time, I stick n ground & they grow! Fear our soil in 40+ yr old house is depleted! We've tried EVERYTHING 2 get it garden-worthy (composting, banana water, fertilizer, garden soil, etc.) 2 no avail! Tried for tomatoes last 2-3 yrs & got maybe 2-3! Wanted 2 cry! Wish we lived in greener area! But, potatoes-yes! And who doesn't like tators? Smile! I keep trying 2 be more self reliant. Just not sure about garden problem! Frustrating! Again, GREAT VIDEO! THANK YOU!

  • @patriciasias2028
    @patriciasias2028 Рік тому +5

    I have chickies, my girls are hand raised. Have them for eggs and fun.❤

  • @frankjones408
    @frankjones408 Місяць тому

    All I can say about this VIDEO is that It answered every question I had on whether or not I should consider starting a Chicken family - AND YES -- I will be seriously considering starting my new family. There is so much information and all of it directly answers most if not all of how to start my new family.. If you are new to this post, I suggest you make it one of your GOTO sites. Charlie --- THANK YOU.

  • @zaria5785
    @zaria5785 Рік тому +3

    I ❤ this. I’m renting so I can’t have chickens but am interested in definitely supporting local farms. Can you visit some local farms in your area that grow chickens and sell eggs? Like either at your local grocery store or farmers market just for comparison reasons? Not that your experience raising chickens & eggs isn’t helpful, but just to raise awareness. And that bit at the end about how people get dogs as pets without considering chickens first 🤯. Thank you for sharing all the great knowledge.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +1

      I will look into it. We have some farms around here. That may be fun to go check out 🙂

  • @shanoncollier769
    @shanoncollier769 5 місяців тому

    I am moving to the country from suburbia. Like you said I have 3 dogs which are a lot of work. I didn't even know you didn't need a rooster for the hens to lay eggs. Thank you for breaking it down so simply.

  • @nctome79
    @nctome79 Рік тому +3

    I watch all your videos! I would love to have fresh eggs, but our HOA does not allow livestock. I understand the reasoning behind the rules, but several neighborhoods inside the city limits have coops and have a yearly coop tour. Would love just a few to feed us and share the food scraps we don't always compost.

    • @chefmatthewlafferty
      @chefmatthewlafferty 6 місяців тому

      How to Amend HOA Bylaws and Covenants in 6 Steps.
      1. Proposal of Amendment
      The first step consists of a proposal describing the changes to the bylaw or covenant. The board will receive this proposal and then submit it for review.
      2. Meeting to Discuss
      The board will then discuss the proposed amendment at a board meeting. During this meeting, the board must allow homeowners to provide their input on the proposal. In some cases, the board may call a special meeting to confer.
      At any time before step 3, you can obtain signatures showing support for the amendment.
      3. Voting
      Following review, the entire membership will then vote either for or against the amendment. Certain requirements may apply here, too. For instance, in California, HOAs must use secret ballots to vote for these changes. The process for changing HOA covenants will also need secret ballots. Some associations may have trouble with voter turnout. In that case, the HOA board may extend the voting period.
      4. Counting of Votes
      The next step in the process of how to change HOA bylaws and covenants is counting the ballots. The tallying of the votes usually takes place during an open meeting. This way, homeowners can watch their votes being counted. Doing this not only ensures transparency but also gives members peace of mind.
      5. Approval of the Amendment
      Homeowners associations require a majority vote from the membership to approve the amendment. What counts as a majority will depend on your governing documents. Usually, though, HOAs need two-thirds or three-quarters of members to approve the change.
      6. Recording and Effectivity
      After approval, changes to the CC&Rs must be recorded with the county recorder’s office. Bylaws, on the other hand, don’t need recording. Instead, bylaws become effective when notice is given to the membership of the change. Of course, that does not mean the board can skip the notice when it comes to covenant changes.

  • @amandak1982
    @amandak1982 Рік тому

    In my short experience with chickens, it’s what you make of it 😒 I keep it very simple lol. I love my girls ❤️

  • @johnlord8337
    @johnlord8337 Рік тому +3

    Stopping chickens (ducks and geese too) from flooding their nest area (or crawling into the water bowls), and spilling out all their food onto the ground - I found that (a sizeable investment - but long lasting) getting (Grainger ?) 2 of those fluorescent orange road pillars with their heavy black rubber bases. Get 2 inexpensive aluminum BUNDT cake pans. Adjust and cut out the bundt pan hole as needed - for properly fitting as a snug trough onto the vertical orange pillar. You can then lower down (chicks) or raise up (adults) the watering or seed troughs and save your water and seed expenses. As the chickens eventually are put into a pasture or a chicken yard - these same units can be used out there - until you finally get the chickens to peck their seed off the ground - but still use the watering trough for safe, secure, clean, and tidy watering of the flock.
    Ducklings and goslings will want to crawl into the water troughs so having the proper height for drinking and not being able to wing-and-leg climb up into the water trough, keeps the water clean.

  • @GardenKatt
    @GardenKatt Рік тому +1

    I didn't realize those food and water dispensares lasted so long. Loved all the info. Thank you.

  • @lilal3753
    @lilal3753 Рік тому +3

    Brian, I am worried about chickens getting lice or being sick. Can you address those issues? Thanks so much.

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping and all about desease just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @TimBaldwin-u2c
    @TimBaldwin-u2c День тому

    Love it.... Looking to get some chicks this spring and liked the simplicity of the video!!! Thank you!

  • @suzanneosio7596
    @suzanneosio7596 Рік тому +8

    Free feeders and waterers..ask at your local grocery store that has a bakery, for their empty 2 gal. icing buckets with lids and handles. Then cut holes just large enough for the chickens to be able to reach in to the bottom. Around the top of the sides. I put 5 evenly spaced .The reason is, you don’t want them to be able to get inside the bucket and kick the feed around, but still allows them to reach to the bottom. This method keeps all feed inside so none goes to waste. The same method works for waterers. You can just set them on the ground, or hang up inside a coop during the winter months. Saves feeding everyday if you fill them up and let them eat the feed down gradually.

  • @michelefox6775
    @michelefox6775 Рік тому +1

    Not enough space for chickens, would if I could. I watch every episode because I so enjoy watching you. If I don't learn something new, you confirm what I did know or give me something to reconsider. I live in Mesa, Arizona but my Zone 9b is very different from yours. Thank you for entertaining while teaching me. If I lived closer, I'd offer free labor!

  • @mawmawd627
    @mawmawd627 Місяць тому +43

    Who’s here Jan 2025 because of egg prices?

    • @mammacass5311
      @mammacass5311 День тому +3

      I’m here in February 2025 I’ve had chickens since 2020 but I love this channel and it came up so I’m watching lol

    • @Pacs_Reptiles5480
      @Pacs_Reptiles5480 13 годин тому

      Im here in January

  • @marciabosteder5682
    @marciabosteder5682 Рік тому +2

    I'm in my first year of raising chickens. I get big beautiful organic eggs. I'm always learning more.❤

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому +1

      It’s the best!

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @angelzhomestead
    @angelzhomestead Рік тому +4

    I want chickens, but i live in the city. They don't allow us to have any😢

    • @venidamcdaniel1913
      @venidamcdaniel1913 Рік тому +1

      Same for me.

    • @bruceyako
      @bruceyako Рік тому +1

      Just get them, they're quieter than dogs no one will complain

    • @PurposeOverPleasure
      @PurposeOverPleasure Рік тому

      I know 2 neighbors on my street that have them open to a popular road. Don’t think anyone cares/enforces chicken laws lol. Plus in my city it’s a small fine worst case scenario

    • @macheteishrecords8419
      @macheteishrecords8419 9 місяців тому +1

      Live on the wild side and cluck the law/regulations

  • @lindafreeman1687
    @lindafreeman1687 Рік тому +1

    I watch all of your video's......but I don't have chickens and probably not going to get any. I just find your video's interesting and full of good information. I would like to have a chicken as a pet because I think they are interesting and would be a fun pet.

  • @ZacAtkin
    @ZacAtkin 2 місяці тому +3

    😂It's mark robers brother😂

  • @WendyGlabe
    @WendyGlabe 9 місяців тому

    I always wanted chickens. I mostly lived in the city. I retired and bought a small house in rural New Brunswick. I was watching chicken and farm videos on youtube. And as usual I said I wish I had chickens. That this evening became I will have chickens. I just want five hens. It gets quite cold here in the winter but chicken keeping is still a popular hobby. I have half an acre of land. I should be able to house and care for five hens. Thank you for the inspiration.

  • @patriciasias2028
    @patriciasias2028 Рік тому +3

    I wish Ihad more space to have more chickens

  • @allisonwalker4441
    @allisonwalker4441 11 місяців тому +1

    First timer, getting ready to start buying our supplies. My hope is to teach my kiddos responsibility and caring and loving animals and I feel like chickens will be good for that. Thank you for the video, I have a little more confidence now! My question is how worried do I need to be about pastey butt ? Or am I over worrying? Thank you again!!

  • @KaquolMeliReno
    @KaquolMeliReno 2 місяці тому

    I used to have Rhode Island reds, but when my husband died I had to move. I miss having them and hope to get some more soon.

  • @townrurallife
    @townrurallife 3 місяці тому

    This guide is perfect for beginners like me! I love how you broke down the basics in such a clear and approachable way. It’s great to see tips on everything from choosing breeds to setting up the coop and feeding. I feel so much more confident about starting my own backyard flock after watching this. Thank you for the amazing content!

  • @jenwilson2096
    @jenwilson2096 10 місяців тому +1

    We ordered our coop today and went out to purchase the necessities tonight. I'm so excited and learned a lot from this. It put my mind at ease that I can do this!

  • @pldilliner9490
    @pldilliner9490 6 місяців тому +1

    Mahalo.. I’m in Hawaii and food costs continue to rise. We eat eggs daily and looking at our options. Thanks for the info. 🌺Leilani

  • @smilie422
    @smilie422 Рік тому +1

    I watch all your videos because they are so entertaining and educational. Not quite ready to chickens yet (but maybe in a year or two)….

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому

      Thank you for watching. I’ll be here when you’re ready 😊

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @bclarkquilts
    @bclarkquilts Рік тому +2

    I absolutely love my bantam chickens! They are so much more fun to watch than I ever expected. We have a broody mama who has hatched eggs twice. So fun to watch her train those babies!

  • @Lylatortora
    @Lylatortora Рік тому +1

    could you do a video on teenage chicks? we are getting them but we don't know much about teenage

  • @kaylanwoodard3018
    @kaylanwoodard3018 Місяць тому

    Thank you, yes your info helped me know the basics. I am a stay at home mom that just moved out to the family property and got baby chick's right away. My partner knows some, but he is on the road 6 days a week so it all lands on me, while raising 3 children 😅

  • @kensij1986
    @kensij1986 Рік тому +1

    Yes, more chickens please. Thanks for All your videos.

    • @littlehomesteadbigdreams
      @littlehomesteadbigdreams  Рік тому

      You’re welcome 🙂

    • @Villagelifesecret
      @Villagelifesecret Рік тому

      you can visit my channel for more quality videos about chickens keeping just click on my channel and see videos
      thanks
      link is here UCTsA3RiOZ5HrGMNgv3_Dz5w

  • @DeliaLynch-w3d
    @DeliaLynch-w3d 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for creating this video! It’s the first time /video I’ve seen about this topic. When a child, my mom raised some and I loved playing with them but didn’t have a clue on how to raise them. After seeing your video, I feel no need to watch a different video. Awesome video! ❤❤ it! Thanks again😊

  • @johnmanfredo422
    @johnmanfredo422 6 місяців тому +1

    GREAT VIDEO I AM NOW GETTING 5 CHICKS THANKS FOR KEEPING IT SIMPLE.. YES MORE CHICKEN CONTENT PLEASE!

  • @cleverhonky7186
    @cleverhonky7186 Рік тому +1

    I keep seeing videos where Black Copper Maran roosters are very friendly and good flock guardians. It would be awesome to see you hatch your own chicks for next years content! Love your content!