Another something I know less than nothing about but want to learn...
My wife and son want to get some chickens for our property… not many, just few.
Not really getting them for eggs or meat but for my son’s educational purpose (to learn about raising animal and life cycle) and to entertain my wife. Getting some fresh eggs while up there and then eventually fresh chicken would be nice too… and educational.
My concern is that we are only there on weekends for 2 or 3 days. Sometimes we are there more frequently but for most part it’s just weekends. Could we keep some chickens when we would have to leave them alone for a week? I was thinking I could build a small chicken coop with 10’ x 20’ outdoor area that is covered (top and side) with wire mesh to keep out predators. I could have a game feeder go off above the area 2 times a day to spread feed for them and set up a trough with 30 gal water reserve to have water for them at all times.
Is this do able? Just how much maintenance does chicken require?
Maybe it’s just a dumb idea but I want to at least look into it.
Being in the woods, you will need to make it predator proof. Chicken wire will not cut it. It has to be welded wire that a predator cannot rip thru. Also it will need to be buried down a foot or so. I have 6 chickens and have them on a 5 gallon bucket gravity feeder I made. I have to fill it about every 15 days. Also I have them on a 5 gallon watering system with watering nipples. They are a must
http://www.amazon.com/Poultry-Chicken-nipple-chickens-hatching/dp/B004NEIS1M
Water lasts about 2 weeks as well.
Make sure they have plenty of shade and a comfortable place to roost. Whatever feed and water system you use, make sure it is fool proof, so they don't starve or die of thirst. A game feeder can quit working at any time
This forum answered every question I had when I started out with chickens
http://www.backyardchickens.com/
Wow, that's a great web site!
Thank you very much!
Looks like it would be possible.
Chickens now and maybe goats later 😉
I used the same chicken nipples i put 5 in the bottom of a 5gal bucket, they work great only took the smartest chicken abt 20mins to get it and the rest followed with in hours. I built my chicken run from a 8x8 dog kennel and just added chicken wire to the outside of the chain link fence cause the chickens like to stick there heads out and our dachshunds like chicken.... I built a chicken house that is attached out of pallets and left over wood i had at the house cant wait for them to start laying. I made a little portable run its 4x6 that i put them in and move around the yard in the evenings or weekends to let them eat bugs and grass. That site is great i have read tons on there it has lots of good info and cheap diy stuff. Might want to check out some guineas they lay egss and are good eatin but also help alert your when they are welcome and unwelcome guest might help with a week property.
Is there maintenance free chicken?
Yep :clap
