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Cheep Sheet:Raising chickens is one of the best places to start on your self-sufficiency journey. Start by determining the type of chicken you want to raise. Do you want a fast-growing chicken that will be ready to harvest in a few weeks, or are you thinking of raising laying hens to provide a supply of fresh eggs for personal use and even for sale? There are many varieties of chickens. They vary in temperament, beauty, length of time to develop and ultimate use.
Once your chickens have been ordered you will need to get your coop prepared and equipped. Chicks basically need water and chick starter. Feeders and waterers are inexpensive and readily available at Snyders Pinenut Livestock Supply in Gardnerville and Fallon. Chickens don't need a lot of space, however baby chicks will need warmth for at least the first few weeks. Hang heat lamps above their nesting area so the chicks can snuggle under them. Kids love to hold baby chicks, and the chicks don't seem to mind as long as they don't get squeezed too hard! If you want your chickens to be tame and friendly it is a good idea to handle them often. Use a bedding of wood shavings, straw or even hay to provide a clean, comfortable place to sit and scratch. Once their feathers have grown, install a perch that fits the whole flock, as they are birds! |
Poultry Products We Carry
- Vaccines
- Antibiotics
- Feed & Supplements
- Wormers/Insecticides
- First Aid
- Pharmacy
- Chuteside Essentials
- Breeding
- Tools & Equipment
- Little Doodads
