Raising chickens is a rewarding experience, but there are a few key things to know before getting started. If you’ve been thinking about adding a flock to your backyard, you’ll want to set them up for success right from the start.
This advice comes from a video shared by Earth, Nails & Tails, which lays out the essentials of keeping chickens happy and healthy. Let’s break it down into five simple but important points.
1. Chickens Have a Pecking Order—Literally
Chickens naturally establish a social hierarchy, and one bird will always be the dominant leader. This pecking order determines who eats first, who gets the best roosting spot, and who’s in charge of the flock. To maintain balance and prevent excessive bullying, it’s best to start with an odd number of chickens—three is a great place to begin. This setup helps reduce conflicts and ensures that no single bird is left out.
2. Chickens Need a Cozy Home
Just like us, chickens want a safe and comfortable place to live. According to Poultry Extension, each bird requires about 3 to 4 square feet inside the coop to stay happy and healthy. This space helps prevent overcrowding, reduces stress, and ensures proper airflow. A well-ventilated, dry coop is essential to keep your chickens warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
3. Nesting Boxes: Share and Share Alike
When it comes to laying eggs, chickens don’t need a private nest for each hen. A good rule of thumb provided by the University of Minnesota Extension is one nesting box for every 4 to 5 hens. Any more than that, and you might find that your chickens still crowd into the same box anyway! Line the nesting area with soft straw or wood shavings to encourage comfortable, clean egg-laying.
4. Roosting: Keep It Natural
Chickens love to perch at night, and providing the right materials for roosting is key. Logs, twigs, and 2×4 wooden beams make excellent roosting spots. They should be placed at least 1 to 2 feet off the ground and positioned so the chickens have enough space to hop up and settle in without crowding each other. Roosting is an instinctive behavior that helps chickens feel secure while they sleep.
5. Chickens Love to Scratch, Dig, and Roam
Chickens are natural foragers, so if you’re not allowing them to free-range, you’ll need to give them plenty of space. A minimum of 5 to 10 square feet per bird in an enclosed run is necessary for them to scratch, peck, and explore without feeling cramped. Adding enrichment—like logs, dust baths, and hanging treats—helps keep them busy and reduces boredom, which can lead to feather picking and aggression.
The Takeaway
Raising chickens can be a wonderful experience, but they require thoughtful care. Understanding their social behaviors, giving them enough space, and providing proper nesting and roosting areas all contribute to a happy and productive flock. Whether you’re starting with three birds or a dozen, setting up their environment correctly from the start will make all the difference. With a little planning, you’ll have healthy, happy hens that reward you with fresh eggs and endless entertainment.
