How to Raise Egg-Laying Chickens
Like 4 Dislike 0 Published on 14 Jul 2010
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If you like the taste of farm-fresh eggs but are miles from the farm, consider raising a few chickens yourself.
Step 1: Count your chickens
Decide how many chickens you want. Most hens in full production will lay an egg every day. If you have too many chickens you may not be able to use all the eggs.
Tip
Acquire your chickens from a reputable supplier to ensure the health of the birds.
Step 2: Build a coop
Build a chicken coop large enough to accommodate your flock. The coop should protect the chickens from rain, wind, and temperature extremes.
Step 3: Add nesting boxes
Place nesting boxes in the coop where the chickens can lay their eggs. The boxes should be enclosed and nest-like.
Tip
Boxes fitted with rear trap doors make it easier to gather eggs.
Step 4: Add perches
Add adequately spaced and arranged perches to the coop so that the chickens can roost at night. Perches can be made from small tree branches, wooden poles, dowels, or even an old wooden ladder. Place litter under the perches, removing it when it gets soiled.
Step 5: Feed chickens
Feed the chickens layer pellets or grain to maintain egg production. They will eat almost anything, including table scraps.
Step 6: Provide water
Provide fresh water in a bowl, checked daily in hot weather.
Step 7: Install a heat lamp
Install a heat lamp in the coop if you live where winters are cold. This will keep the chickens' water from freezing.
Did You Know?
Chickens have played a central role in cancer research and were instrumental in the discovery of the first tumor viruses.