Backyard Chickens 101: Getting Started with Your Flock

Thinking about adding chickens to your backyard? You’re in the right place! At Freshcoln Farms, we’ve helped hundreds of local families learn how to confidently care for their own flock — and we’re so glad you’re joining the fun.

Whether you’re here after attending one of our classes or just curious about what it takes to raise chickens, this guide will walk you through the basics and give you access to our favorite resources.

Why Raise Backyard Chickens?

Raising chickens is more than just fresh eggs (though those are a huge perk). Chickens are:

• Natural composters and garden helpers

• Great for teaching kids responsibility

• Surprisingly affectionate and fun to watch

• A step toward a more sustainable lifestyle

The Basics: What Every New Chicken Keeper Should Know

Here’s what we cover in our beginner class:

Coop & Run Setup

• 4 square feet per chicken inside, 10 square feet in the run

• Secure from predators with hardware cloth (not chicken wire)

• Provide roosting bars, nesting boxes, and good ventilation

Feeding & Daily Care

• Layer feed for adults, starter feed for chicks

• Grit and oyster shell for digestion and strong eggshells

• Clean, fresh water available at all times

• Egg collection and a quick health check every day

Choosing Chicken Breeds

We recommend starting with friendly, hardy breeds:

• Ameraucana (blue/green eggs)

• Australorp (gentle, great layers)

• Black Sex-Link (productive and easy-going)

• Mottled Houdan (unique and social)

• Bielefelder (large, sweet, kid-friendly)

Egg Production

• Starts around 5–6 months of age

• Hens need 14–16 hours of light to lay consistently

• Slows during winter and molting

Health & Safety

• Regular coop cleaning is key

• Know how to recognize common issues (mites, respiratory trouble, etc.)

• Keep a basic chicken first aid kit on hand

Helpful Resources

Looking for product links, coop design ideas, or first-aid kit must-haves? Head to the following blog posts:

• Beginner Chicken Supply Checklist

• Top 5 Chicken Breeds for Families

• Coop Setup Guide: What You Really Need

• Natural Remedies & First Aid for Chickens

We’ll keep adding to this list as our farm (and flock!) grows.

Join Our Chicken Community

Want to stay in the loop? Tag us in your flock photos, follow us on Instagram @FreshcolnFarms, or sign up for our newsletter to get seasonal tips and early access to future workshops.

Got questions? Reach out anytime or leave a comment — we’re always happy to help another chicken-loving family get started!