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When making plans for a chicken coop, there are many variables to consider. Before purchasing birds or planning the design of your chicken coop, you will need to check to see if there are regulations regarding raising chickens in your town. While many towns have banned roosters, you may be surprised that even some major cities like New York still allow hens. With the growing concern and interest in the source of our meat and food products, organic gardening and backyard chicken raising have enjoyed a resurgence in recent years. Even municipalities such as Madison Wisconsin and Ann Arbor Michigan have overturned regulations which at one time banned chickens largely due to the grassroots efforts of its citizenry.
When making plans TO RAISE BACKYARD CHICKENS, you will also need to learn about different breeds of chickens. Most breeds come in 2 sizes, standard (the larger size) and bantam (the smaller size). Both are fine for backyard chicken raising but the larger standard size lays much larger eggs and due to its size has less tendency to fly around. One of the most popular breeds is the Black Australorp which are known for reliable egg production. Buff Orpingtons and Silver Laced Wyandottes are dual purposed breeds which may be used for both eggs and meat.
When creating your flock you will also want to consider both the behavioral and the climate suitability of each breed. Obviously birds with thicker plumage will do better in the colder climates. Silkies are a popular breed for warmer climates since they have a finer layer of plumage.
When considering plans for a chicken coop, start with the basics. The chicken coop should protect your flock from predators. The plans for a chicken coop should keep your chickens cool in the summer and warm and dry in the winter. The basic chicken coop should have square wooden boxes which will be filled with straw. This is where the hens will lay there eggs. You also need to avoid crowding your chickens. Generally you should allow 2 to 4 square feet of floor space per bird.. This space insures that the chickens will have room to exercise as well as lay their eggs. One of your main concerns will also be protecting your flock from predators. You may want to consider using one quarter inch hardware cloth for enclosures as opposed to chicken wire. Chicken wire is vulnerable to both raccoons and small rodents which can prove deadly to your flock.
When considering plans for a chicken coop you will also need to decide if you are going to start your flock with fertilized eggs, chicks or pullets. Pullets are hens which are under a year old. Pullets are a popular choice because they can begin laying eggs in a few weeks, but Pullets can be hard to find and may cost between $5 and $10 a bird. Fertilized eggs are another option. You can get fertilized eggs from a hatchery. The cost usually averages around $40 per 10 fertilized eggs. You may also choose chicks to start your flock. While chicks are readily available, they must be kept in a brooder for 5 weeks before they can move into your chicken coop.
Some of the best plans for a chicken coop can be found on line. Once you have built your chicken coop and chosen your flock, you will be on your way to the ultimate self sufficient lifestyle.

GUIDE TO RAISING BACKYARD CHICKENS