Caring for your backyard chickens

It’s been two weeks since our chooks moved into our little urban patch, and I’m happy to report that they’ve settled in well. I’ve also been pleasantly surprised by how easy they are to care for and how amusing they are to watch. Now we just need to wait for the eggs.

Chickens are extremely productive pets – they produce eggs, turn compost and fertilise your garden – but all of that doesn’t just happen overnight. To ensure your hens are happy and healthy, first you need to do your research so you know what to expect. As a start, check out the first video in our chicken series – six things to know before getting chickens.

Chickens also need a shelter that keeps them safe from predators and provides them with a clean, comfortable place to lay their eggs. The second video in the series – getting set up for backyard chickens – should answer any questions you have about this.

Once you’re all set up and your chickens finally arrive, it’s important to understand what’s required from you on a day-to-day basis and when you can expect your first eggs. In the video below, I continue my conversation with City Chicks breeder John Huntington about the egg-laying habits of different breeds, as well as their daily routine.