As a minimum, chickens need: a dry, lockable coop with perch and nest box, a run or safe outdoor area, a drinker, a feeder or feeder tower, layers feed with grit and a way to spot red mite early. This page brings those basics together, plus what you should sort out in advance.
The equipment at a glance
- Shelter: a coop for the night and a run for the day. Advice on sizes and materials is in chicken coops and runs.
- Water: a Gaun drinker tower, in capacities from 1 to 40 litres. Which size suits your flock is explained in chicken drinkers.
- Feed: a feeder tower keeps feed dry and clean; see feeders and feeder towers. Layers pellets and grain are in chicken feed and treats.
- Nest box: for example a plastic Gaun nest box, which you can easily rinse off.
- Parasite control: a red mite spray or powder from Excellent, to be used according to the label.
- Peck block: a layer peck block from Excellent or LAX keeps the birds occupied in the run.
Before the first chickens arrive
Discuss your plans with the neighbours; a cockerel crows early, hens do not. Check whether your local council has rules for animals in the garden. Bear in mind that during bird flu outbreaks a housing order may apply, including to backyard chickens: they must then stay under a solid roof or indoors. A run with a cover makes that easier. And plan ahead who will look after the birds when you are on holiday.
The daily routine
In the morning, open the pop hole, refresh the water and top up the feed. During the day, collect the eggs. In the evening, check that everyone is inside and close the coop. Once a week, remove droppings and check the perches for red mite: shine a torch into the seams at the ends of the perches and look for grey or red specks.
All supplies for chicken keepers are in the complete chicken overview.
Frequently asked questions
How many chickens should I get as a beginner?
Chickens are flock animals; keep at least two, preferably three. Then there is still company if one falls ill or dies.
Do I need a cockerel for eggs?
No, hens lay without a cockerel too. A cockerel is only needed for fertile eggs to hatch.
Do I need to register my chickens?
Registration rules for backyard poultry differ by country and can change. Check the current rules with the relevant authority in your country before you get chickens.
What is grit and why is it needed?
Grit is crushed stone that chickens use in their gizzard to grind feed. Oyster shell also supplies calcium for strong eggshells.