Raising Chickens

🐓 Raising Chickens: The Gateway to Homesteading

If you’re thinking about dipping your boots into the homesteading lifestyle, chickens are the perfect place to start. They’re low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and provide a steady source of fresh eggs—not to mention a whole lot of personality.

Whether you’re raising a few hens for fun or working toward food security, this guide will walk you through everything you need to get started.

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🏠 Where They Live: Building or Buying a Coop

Your coop is more than just a shelter—it’s your flock’s fortress. A well-built coop should offer:

• Predator protection (think raccoons, hawks, foxes)
• Ventilation without drafts
• Nesting boxes for laying
• Roosting bars for sleeping

A small backyard coop may be all you need, but plan for at least 3–4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 8–10 square feet per bird in the run.

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🐣 Choosing Your Flock

Not sure which chickens to start with? Here are some popular, beginner-friendly breeds:

• Rhode Island Red – tough birds, great layers
• Buff Orpington – sweet, fluffy, good with kids
• Barred Rock – calm and reliable
• Easter Egger – colorful eggs and curious personalities

Start with 4–6 hens—enough for consistent eggs and a happy social group.

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🧺 Daily & Weekly Care

Raising chickens doesn’t take much time, but consistency is key.

Every Day:

• Feed and fresh water
• Collect eggs
• Quick health and safety check

Weekly:

• Scoop droppings under the roost
• Refresh bedding in nesting boxes
• Check for any damage to the coop or fencing

Seasonal tips:

• ❄️ In winter: Insulate with deep bedding, prevent frozen water
• ☀️ In summer: Offer shade and cold treats
• 🍂 In fall: Expect molting and a drop in egg production

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🛠️ DIY or Ready-Made: The Coop Decision

Some folks like to build their own coop from scratch (or a kit), especially if they have access to local lumber. Others prefer to buy one ready-made, built for both beauty and function.

Either way, be sure to prioritize:

• Durability
• Ventilation
• Ease of cleaning
• Access for egg collection

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⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Predators: Secure your coop with hardware cloth, not chicken wire
• Boredom: Leads to pecking and egg-eating—give them enrichment like stumps, swings, or scattered treats
• Too much mud: Wet ground can cause foot issues. Add straw, sand, or wood chips for drainage

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🧑‍🌾 Wrap-Up: Your First Flock is Just the Beginning

Chickens are more than just egg layers—they’re part of your rhythm, your garden helpers, and your outdoor companions. With just a little prep and daily care, they’ll give you eggs, fertilizer, and a front-row seat to the joys of homesteading.

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🪚 Thinking About Getting Started?

At Coleman Woodcrafts, we’ve been raising chickens for years—and building custom coops with the kind of craftsmanship that lasts. Whether you’re ready to order a coop, build one yourself with locally milled lumber, or just want to browse past projects, we’re happy to help.

🐔 Request a quote or check out our Chicken Coops page to take your first step.