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BACKYARD HENS

Feathered friends and fresh eggs.

By Terrie Miller

Chickens have been genetically engineered for millennia to be friendly, no-fuss food-making machines. Keeping a small backyard flock of these charming birds may be easier than you think, and the eggs you’ll get are tastier and more nutritious than what you buy in the store.

Photography by Terrie Miller

Before you start, you might want to check local ordinances. Many municipalities allow some number of hens, but forbid roosters. Don’t worry, you don’t need roosters for egg production.

Choose the Breed(s)
and Flock Size
For most backyard flocks, you’ll want a docile,
friendly temperament combined with good egg
production. Some high-producing breeds, like
White Leghorns, have a reputation for being

ONE-TIME MATERIALS

Chicks
Large cardboard box
Plastic packing tape
Incandescent lamp with reflector
Thermometer
Chick feeder and waterer
Chicken coop with nest box and roosting area
Feeder and waterer for adult chickens

ONGOING SUPPLIES

Chicken feed age-appropriate formulas
Pine shavings or other litter for chicks
Straw for adults
Water
Calcium and grit supplements

Make: 157