Sharing the Backyard Chicken Keeping Journey: Journaling on Social Media Accounts
Discover the benefits of sharing your backyard chicken keeping journey on social media for both the consumer of your experience and to receive answers to issues and questions you may have.
Whether you are a seasoned chicken keeper or just getting started, sharing experiences and tips with fellow enthusiasts will make the journey even more enjoyable.
Journaling your experiences with raising backyard chickens and sharing these experiences online will help newbies avoid mistakes you have made and will bring comments that may well solve some issues or questions you are currently experiencing.
Daily journaling will prove valuable for your own reference in the future, and posting your discoveries online will benefit others as well as receiving answers to issues you may currently be experiencing.
Post your progress on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, or any social media platform that interests you. Find groups dedicated to raising backyard chickens and join them.
The rest of this article offers some topics about what to journal and share on social media.

Read my other related articles:
- Backyard Chickens and Children: A Guide to Raising Chickens as a Family Project
- Benefits of Raising Chickens for children: Responsibilities and Learning
- Safe Interaction Between Children and Chickens
- Fun and Educational Chicken-Related Activities for Families
- Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds for Families with Children
- Building a Kid-Friendly Chicken Coop
- Lessons in Sustainability and Nature for Kids Through Chicken Keeping
4 Reasons You Will Love Owning Backyard Chickens
Owning backyard chickens is a rewarding and enriching experience that many enthusiasts cherish. Here are four top reasons for loving backyard chicken keeping.
Firstly, the most obvious benefit is the supply of fresh eggs. With backyard chickens comes a reliable source of fresh, nutritious eggs straight from your backyard. You will never have to question the quality of your eggs again, as you will know exactly how your chickens are raised and what they eat. The taste difference is significant, making your morning omelets even more satisfying.
A second reason to love chicken keeping is companionship. Chickens are surprisingly social and form bonds with their owners. Watching their quirky behaviors and unique personalities is a delightful daily pastime. Raising backyard chickens brings joy to many people, and these feathery friends often become beloved pets. They provide natural pest control, as they eat various insects and reduce the need for chemical pesticides in your garden.
A third reason is the educational opportunities it provides, especially for families with children. This is a lesser-known advantage of keeping backyard chickens. Chickens offer a practical way to teach children about responsibility, biology, and sustainable living. Taking care of chickens involves a range of daily tasks that instill discipline and a strong work ethic. Children learn about the chicken’s life cycle, from chicks to adult hens, and gain an appreciation for the origination of their food. This hands-on approach to learning is both fun and informative.
The fourth reason is raising backyard chickens contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. Chickens are excellent at recycling kitchen scraps into compost. They reduce household waste and enrich the soil in the garden. Their droppings are a fantastic natural fertilizer that promotes soil health. By engaging in backyard chicken keeping, you are playing a part in reducing your carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices. This sustainable approach aligns well with the growing emphasis on green living.
Whether you are drawn to the allure of fresh eggs, the companionship of quirky pets, educational opportunities, or sustainable living, there is a lot to love about raising backyard chickens.
Embracing backyard chicken keeping is a transformative experience that enhances your life in numerous ways. If you are passionate about fresh, home-raised eggs and a closer connection to nature, you will find that keeping backyard chickens is a truly fulfilling endeavor. So, do not hesitate to join the growing number of people who have taken the leap into the wonderful world of backyard chickens!
How To Set Up A Brooder For Baby Chicks
Setting up a brooder for baby chicks is an essential step in your backyard chicken keeping journey. A brooder is a safe, warm environment that chicks need during their first few weeks of life before they transition to the outdoor coop.
Whether you are new to raising chickens or a seasoned pro, knowing how to set up a proper brooder setup will make a big difference in the health and happiness of your chicks.

First, you will need a container for your brooder. This can be a large plastic tote, a wooden box, or even a kiddie pool. The size of the brooder depends on the number of chicks you are raising, but there should be ample space for the chicks to move around without crowding each other.
Line the bottom of the brooder with absorbent bedding, such as pine shavings or straw. This will help keep the area clean and dry.
Temperature control is critical in a brooder setup. Baby chicks need warmth, especially in their first week of life, with the temperature set at approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a heat lamp or a brooder plate to provide this warmth. As chicks grow, gradually decrease the temperature by 5 degrees Fahrenheit each week until they are fully feathered.
Equally important is to ensure that your chicks have access to fresh food and clean water at all times. Chick starter feed is designed to meet the nutritional needs of young chickens and help them grow strong and healthy. Position the feeders and waterers in such a way that they are not easily knocked over by the active chicks, yet still accessible. This will help maintain a tidy and sanitary environment in your brooder.
Lastly, keep your brooder secure. Curious pets and even small children pose a threat to your baby chicks. Place a mesh screen or hardware cloth over the top of the brooder to prevent unwanted visitors and to keep the chicks from escaping.
Once your chicks are around six weeks old and have outgrown their brooder, they can be moved to the outdoor coop. Understand how to set up a brooder effectively to ensure that your chicks are off to a great start. With these steps, you will be well on your way to raising healthy and vibrant chickens. Remember, your attention to detail during these early stages will lead to a thriving backyard flock in no time.
How To Tell Your Chick Will Be A Rooster – 8 Early Signs
If you are new to raising backyard chickens, identifying whether your chick will grow into a rooster or hen can be quite a challenge. While it is impossible to be certain immediately, there are eight early signs to look for when determining if your chick is a rooster.
- Firstly, observe the comb and wattle development. Roosters typically develop larger and more noticeable combs and wattles at an early age compared to hens. If your chick’s comb and wattles are growing fast and becoming more prominent, it is likely you are looking at a future rooster.
- Secondly, take note of their size. Roosters usually grow to be larger than hens. If your chick is consistently bigger than its peers, this could be another indicator.
- Additionally, watch for faster feather growth. Interestingly, chick roosters often have slower feather development compared to chick hens.
- Behavioral traits will also provide clues. Roosters often display more assertive and dominant behaviors. If your chick is already showing signs of bossiness or is more aggressive during feeding time, these are potential signs of a rooster in the making.
- Leg size is another telltale sign. Roosters generally develop thicker, sturdier legs compared to hens. If you notice your chick has noticeably thicker legs, this is another clue.
- Another characteristic is the color and shape of the feathers. Roosters often have more vibrant and flashy color patterns, and their tail feathers may start developing longer and more curved in appearance. Similarly, roosters tend to have pointed feathers around their neck, also known as hackle feathers, as they mature.
- The sound your chick makes is also an indicator. While this is more evident as they grow, young roosters may attempt to crow at an early age. If you hear attempting crowing from your chick, it is a strong sign you have a future rooster on your hands.
- Lastly, pay attention to the overall stance and posture of your chick. Roosters often stand taller and more upright compared to hens, assuming a more protective and vigilant stance.
Remember, while these signs are helpful, they are not foolproof. The real fun of raising backyard chickens is watching them grow and surprise you along the way. Whether your chick turns out to be a rooster or a hen, your experience will surely be rewarding. Observe your flock and enjoy the journey of chicken keeping, from chick to adult, as each one has its own unique quirks and characteristics.
Where Is The Best Place To Buy Chicks?
For those embarking on the delightful journey of backyard chicken keeping, one pressing question often arises: Where is the best place to buy chicks?
Finding the right source to purchase your chicks is crucial to ensure a healthy and thriving flock. Let us delve into the best places to get your future egg-laying champions and beloved pets.
- Local feed stores are an excellent option. These stores often offer a variety of chick breeds and provide a convenient, immediate way to pick them up. The staff can also give valuable advice on starting your flock, from setting up the brooder to dietary needs. Another significant advantage is that you can visually inspect the chicks for health and vitality before making your purchase.
- Online hatcheries have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and extensive selection of breeds. Some reputable online stores include My Pet Chicken, Murray McMurray Hatchery, and Cackle Hatchery. These websites offer comprehensive information on each breed, and allow you to choose the perfect chicks tailored to your backyard setup. Many online hatcheries offer guaranteed delivery of healthy chicks, and some even provide guarantees on the sex of the chicks, reducing the chances of ending up with a surprise rooster.
- Another valuable place to buy chicks is from local breeders. Often, local breeders have more specialized knowledge about the specific needs and temperaments of the breed they carry. Purchasing directly from a breeder allows you to gain insights into the chicks’ genetics and the potential egg-laying capabilities of your future hens. Additionally, local breeders may offer rare or heritage breeds that are not available through standard commercial avenues.
- It is also worth considering chicken swaps, often hosted by farming and homesteading groups. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet other backyard chicken enthusiasts, learn from their experiences, and buy chicks of various breeds. Connecting with a community can offer ongoing support and advice as you build and maintain your flock. When buying chicks, always ensure you are sourcing from reputable places to ensure the health and well-being of your backyard flock.
Happy and healthy chicks are more likely to grow into robust chickens that provide you with fresh, delicious eggs for years to come. Whether you choose a local feed store, online hatchery, local breeder, or a chicken swap, doing your research and asking plenty of questions will help you make an informed decision. The joy of raising a thriving backyard chicken flock begins with selecting the right place to buy chicks and setting them up in a warm, welcoming brooder.
Home Chicken Keeping: Tips on Raising Backyard Chickens
Keep in mind that with home chicken keeping, there are a few essential tips to ensure your girls thrive. First and foremost, consider the space you have available for raising backyard chickens. Your hens need a lot of room to roam and forage, not just a cozy coop. This outdoor space is crucial, giving them a view of the world and a place to stretch their legs. Do not forget to secure your backyard to prevent predators from approaching your flock. A sturdy fence and a well-constructed coop will help keep your chickens safe.
Another key aspect of home chicken keeping is the care and feeding. A balanced diet is essential for your hens to lay healthy eggs. Make sure to provide a mix of grains, greens, and proteins. Additionally, always have fresh water available. Regularly check for signs of illness or distress, as early detection will make all the difference in treating your chickens effectively. Clean the coop frequently to maintain hygiene and keep your flock healthy.
Integrating your chickens into your daily routine can be very rewarding. Spend some time observing them to understand their behaviors and needs. Each hen has her own unique personality, and knowing them well will help you raise a happy flock. Backyard chicken keeping is about the eggs and also about the joy and companionship these birds provide.
It is essential to be prepared for different seasons when keeping chickens at home. In the summer, ensure they have plenty of shade and water to stay cool. Conversely, in the winter, check that their coop is well-insulated to keep them warm. Ventilation is key year-round to prevent moisture buildup and respiratory issues.
If you are raising baby chicks, setting up a brooder with the right temperature, food, and water is vital. As they grow, you will need to transition them to the coop gradually. For first-time chicken keepers, it can be challenging to tell if your chick will be a rooster. Keep an eye out for early signs, such as comb growth and behavior changes to plan accordingly.

The best place to buy chicks can vary, but reputable hatcheries or local farms are great options. You can also find fantastic resources online. Some of the best chicken blogs and Instagram accounts offer invaluable advice on home chicken keeping. They share viewpoints from seasoned chicken keepers and provide an abundance of tips on raising backyard chickens effectively.
Raising backyard chickens is a fulfilling adventure. With the right preparation, tips, and ongoing care, you will enjoy a happy, healthy flock in your home. Happy chicken keeping!
Check out my other posts on Backyard Chickens
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the primary benefits of keeping backyard chickens?
A: Keeping backyard chickens offers several benefits. First, is a reliable supply of fresh, nutritious eggs. Second, chickens are sociable animals that form bonds with their owners and provide companionship and entertainment through their quirky behaviors. Third, they aid in pest control by eating insects. Additionally, keeping chickens is educational, particularly for families with children, as it teaches responsibility and the chicken life cycle. Finally, chickens contribute to sustainable living as they recycle kitchen scraps into compost and fertilize the garden with their droppings.
Q: How do you set up a proper brooder for baby chicks?
A: Setting up a proper brooder is crucial for the health and development of baby chicks. Start with a container large enough to allow the chicks to move around freely. Line the bottom with absorbent bedding such as pine shavings. Maintain the brooder temperature around 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the first week, decreasing it by 5 degrees each week until the chicks are fully feathered. Ensure they have access to chick starter feed and clean water. Secure the brooder to keep pets and children away, possibly by covering it with a mesh screen.
Q: What early signs can help determine if a chick will grow into a rooster?
A: Identifying a rooster early is challenging but look for these eight signs: larger and more noticeable combs and wattles at an early age, larger body size, slower feather development, more assertive and dominant behaviors, thicker legs, vibrant and more flashy feather color patterns, early attempts at crowing, and a taller, more upright posture. While these signs can help, they are not entirely foolproof, and surprises are always possible.
Q: Where are the best places to buy chicks?
A: The best places to buy chicks include local feed stores, reputable online hatcheries, and local breeders. Feed stores offer immediate pickup and expert advice. Online hatcheries like My Pet Chicken, Murray McMurray Hatchery, and Cackle Hatchery provide extensive breed selections and guaranteed delivery of healthy chicks. Local breeders offer specialized knowledge about specific breeds and possibly rare or heritage breeds. Additionally, chicken swaps hosted by farming groups are excellent for purchasing chicks and networking with other enthusiasts.
Happy Backyard Chicken Journaling!
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