When we moved to Promise View Acres, one of our first priorities was starting a small chicken flock. We'd read books and watched countless videos, but nothing quite prepared us for the reality of chicken keeping—both the challenges and the unexpected joys. After a full year with our feathered friends, we're sharing our experience to help other beginners.
Starting with Chicks
We began our chicken journey with eight day-old chicks—four Buff Orpingtons and four Barred Rocks. Setting up the brooder, maintaining the right temperature, and watching these tiny fluffballs grow was an adventure in itself.
The most surprising thing about raising chicks was how quickly they grow and develop personalities. Within weeks, we could already tell which would be the flock leaders and which were more shy and gentle. This early bonding time is precious and sets the foundation for a friendly, manageable flock.
Chickens are the gateway livestock—they teach you the fundamentals of animal husbandry while providing daily gifts of fresh eggs and endless entertainment.
Lessons from Our First Year
Chicken keeping came with a steep learning curve. Here are some of the most valuable lessons we learned:
- Predator protection is non-negotiable—we learned this the hard way after losing a hen to a fox
- Chickens need more space than most books suggest for truly happy, healthy birds
- A clean coop prevents most common health issues and makes egg collection more pleasant
- Different breeds truly have different temperaments—choose breeds that match your goals
- Chickens are excellent garden helpers when managed properly with supervised free-ranging
Perhaps our biggest lesson was the importance of observation. Spending time watching your flock helps you notice subtle changes in behavior that might indicate health issues or coop problems before they become serious.
Is Chicken Keeping Right for You?
After a year with our flock, we can confidently say that chickens are an excellent addition to a homestead or even a suburban backyard. They provide nutritious eggs, help with pest control and composting, and bring life and movement to your property. While they do require daily care and attention, the routine is simple once established. If you're considering chickens, we encourage you to take the plunge—just be prepared to become slightly obsessed with your feathered friends!