Bringing backyard chickens into your life is exciting, rewarding, and—if we’re being honest—a little overwhelming at first. Chickens are often the gateway animal into homesteading, and while they’re relatively easy to care for, there are a few important things to understand before you bring home your first flock.
If you take the time to plan ahead, raising backyard chickens can be one of the most fulfilling experiences you’ll have.
Check Local Laws and Zoning First
Before buying chicks or building a coop, start with the less exciting—but very important—step: local regulations.
Many towns and counties allow backyard chickens, but they may have rules about:
- The number of chickens you can keep
- Whether roosters are allowed
- Coop placement and distance from property lines
Your local municipality or zoning office is the best place to confirm current rules. Cooperative extension offices, such as Virginia Cooperative Extension, often provide guidance on backyard poultry regulations and best practices.
Start With a Realistic Flock Size
It’s easy to fall in love with every chick at the feed store, but starting small is key.
For most beginners:
- 3–6 hens is a manageable starting flock
- This provides a steady egg supply without being overwhelming
- Smaller flocks are easier to monitor for health issues
You can always add more chickens later once you’re comfortable with daily care.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds Matters
Not all chickens are the same. Different breeds vary in temperament, egg production, cold or heat tolerance, and appearance.
When choosing breeds, consider:
- Your climate
- Egg color and quantity
- Personality and friendliness
- Space available
The different hatchery websites provide a lot of information on the different breeds, and will help you select the right breed for you.
Housing: Coop and Run Basics
Chickens need a safe, dry, and well-ventilated place to sleep and lay eggs.
A good coop should include:
- Protection from predators
- Proper ventilation without drafts
- One nesting box for every 3–4 hens
- About 4 square feet per chicken inside the coop
An outdoor run or secure free-ranging area is equally important for exercise and enrichment.
Daily Care Is Simple—but Consistent
Chickens don’t require hours of work each day, but they do need consistency.
Daily tasks include:
- Providing fresh water
- Supplying quality feed
- Collecting eggs
- Quick health checks
Skipping basic care, even for a day, can quickly lead to problems. Chickens thrive on routine.
Feed, Nutrition, and Treats
A balanced commercial layer feed should make up the majority of your chickens’ diet.
In addition:
- Grit is essential for digestion
- Oyster shell provides calcium for strong eggshells
- Treats should be given in moderation
Predator Protection Is Non-Negotiable
One of the biggest surprises for new chicken keepers is how many predators are interested in a flock.
Common predators include:
- Raccoons
- Foxes
- Hawks
- Snakes
Secure hardware cloth (not chicken wire), covered runs, and locked coops at night are critical to keeping chickens safe.
Chickens Have a Learning Curve
Chickens will eventually stop laying, get broody, molt, or get sick—it’s part of keeping livestock.
Before starting, it helps to:
- Learn basic chicken health signs
- Have a plan for illness or injury
- Accept that loss can happen
Extension services like Cornell Cooperative Extension provide science-based poultry health resources.
Chickens Are Surprisingly Entertaining
Chickens are productive, but they’re also full of personality.
They:
- Establish social hierarchies
- Recognize routine and caretakers
- Enjoy dust baths and foraging
Many backyard chicken keepers find that simply watching their flock becomes a favorite part of the day.
Backyard Chickens Are a Commitment
Chickens can live 6–10 years or more. Egg production slows with age, but care needs remain the same.
Before starting, ask yourself:
- Who will care for the chickens during vacations?
- Are you prepared for winter care and summer heat?
- Can you commit to daily chores year-round?
Thinking through these questions early sets you up for success.
Starting Chickens Is About More Than Eggs
While fresh eggs are a major benefit, backyard chickens offer much more.
They:
- Reduce food waste
- Improve garden soil through compost
- Teach responsibility and patience
- Create a deeper connection to food and seasons
Backyard chickens encourage a slower, more intentional way of living—one egg at a time.
Final Thoughts: Start Slow and Enjoy the Process
Raising backyard chickens doesn’t have to be complicated. With thoughtful planning, realistic expectations, and a willingness to learn, chickens can become one of the most rewarding parts of your backyard or homestead.
Start small. Ask questions. Learn as you go.
Your future flock will thank you.