Before Getting Birds
Thinking about purchasing poultry or gamebirds, or already have a flock? Here are ten key things every bird owner should know.
Ten Considerations Before Getting Birds
1. Where You Buy Birds Matters
Even healthy-looking birds can carry hidden diseases that can spread to your whole flock. Many poultry diseases have no cure. Buy from reputable, tested sources and use “all-in, all-out” approaches to lower the risk.
2. Space Matters
Each bird needs enough room inside the coop and outside in the run to stay healthy. Plan for 2 to 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and about 10 square feet per bird outdoors. When birds are crowded, they can become stressed, peck at each other, and spread disease more easily.
3. Coop Costs Add Up
A safe coop is more than four walls. It needs solid construction, good airflow, predator-proof doors and windows, and nesting boxes. Building or buying a coop with these features usually costs between $500 and $1,500, and larger or custom setups can cost even more.
4. Feed Costs Can Be Surprising
Good nutrition is the key to healthy birds and steady egg production. Quality feed for five hens usually costs $20 to $40 per month. Cutting corners with cheap or unbalanced feed often leads to fewer eggs and more health problems.
5. Check Local Rules First
Some towns and homeowner associations do not allow backyard poultry, or they may limit flock size or ban roosters. Always review city codes and HOA rules before buying birds or building a coop.
6. They Need Daily Care
Backyard birds are not set-and-forget pets. They need fresh food and water every day, eggs collected, and regular coop cleaning. Plan for someone to help when you are away, since even short gaps in care can affect their health.
7. Roosters? Maybe Not
Many cities and neighborhoods ban roosters because of noise. Hens will lay eggs without them, so you do not need a rooster for egg production. When buying young chicks, some sellers do not sort them by sex. That means you may end up with roosters in the mix even if you only want hens.
8. Predators Are Everywhere
Backyard flocks attract predators such as foxes, raccoons, hawks, owls, and even neighborhood dogs. A sturdy coop with secure locks and a covered run offers the best protection. Always close birds in at night, since many predators hunt after dark.
9. Eggs Take Time
Hens do not lay right away. Most begin producing eggs when they are four to six months old. Once laying starts, production can vary with breed, season, and care, so do not expect a steady supply at first.
10. Chickens Live For Years
Egg laying slows as hens get older, and some eventually stop altogether. Since chickens often live for many years after their peak production, it is important to plan ahead for how you will care for them once they are no longer laying.