Livestock · February 2025 · 6 min read
Chickens are one of the easiest and most rewarding livestock to raise on a small farm or homestead. A small flock of laying hens provides fresh eggs, insect control, and garden-ready manure with minimal space and investment. Getting started right with the proper breed, housing, and nutrition sets you up for years of productive poultry keeping.
Select breeds based on your primary goal: egg production, meat, or dual-purpose. For maximum egg production, Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Golden Comets are proven performers laying 250 to 300 eggs per year.
Provide at least 4 square feet of indoor coop space and 8 to 10 square feet of outdoor run space per bird. The coop must be predator-proof, well-ventilated, and dry. Hardware cloth (not chicken wire) is essential for keeping out raccoons, weasels, and other predators.
Include one nest box for every 3 to 4 hens, mounted 18 to 24 inches off the ground. Provide roost bars at a higher level than the nest boxes, allowing 8 to 10 inches of linear roost space per bird. Use deep litter or sand bedding for easy maintenance.
Feed a complete layer feed with 16 to 18 percent protein once hens reach laying age at around 18 to 20 weeks. Provide feed free-choice in a feeder that stays dry and clean. A laying hen eats approximately one-quarter pound of feed per day.
Offer oyster shell in a separate container for calcium supplementation, which is critical for strong eggshells. Provide clean, fresh water at all times. Chickens on pasture will supplement their diet with insects, seeds, and greens, reducing feed consumption and producing eggs with richer yolks.
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Try the Livestock Feed CalculatorKeep the coop clean and dry to prevent the most common health problems. External parasites like mites and lice are managed through dust bathing areas and coop cleaning. Inspect birds regularly by parting feathers near the vent and under the wings.
Respiratory infections, often caused by poor ventilation and ammonia buildup, are the second most common issue. Ensure the coop has adequate airflow year-round without direct drafts on roosting birds. Quarantine any new birds for 30 days before introducing them to your flock to prevent disease transmission.