Sustainable Farming

Raising Chickens in the Backyard: A Beginner’s Guide

Raising Chickens in the Backyard: A Beginner’s Guide

Everything from coop setup to daily care and egg collection

Backyard chickens are becoming a popular addition to gardens and homesteads across Canada—and for good reason. They provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, rich compost material, and endless entertainment. But like any living creatures, chickens need proper care, attention, and a safe environment to thrive.

If you’re thinking of starting your own little flock, this beginner-friendly guide covers everything you need to know—from setting up the coop to collecting your first egg.

1. Are Backyard Chickens Right for You?

Before you dive in, check with your municipality or local bylaws. Many cities and towns across Canada allow backyard hens, but there may be restrictions on:

  • The number of birds you can keep
  • Whether roosters are allowed (many areas prohibit them)
  • Required coop distance from property lines or dwellings

Once you’re clear on the rules, ask yourself:

  • Do I have the space and time to care for chickens daily?
  • Am I prepared to care for them year-round, even in winter?
  • What will I do if one becomes sick or injured?

If the answer is yes, you’re ready to move forward.

2. Choosing Your Chicken Breeds

For beginners, it’s best to start with calm, cold-hardy, reliable egg layers. Here are some popular backyard breeds in Canada:

  • Plymouth Rock: Friendly, great layers, and cold-tolerant
  • Rhode Island Red: Hardy and consistent egg producers
  • Orpington: Gentle, great for families, and decent layers
  • Leghorn: High egg output but more flighty
  • Australorp: Excellent layers and very docile

Start with 3 to 6 hens, depending on your space and needs. Chickens are social animals and should never be kept alone.

3. Setting Up Your Chicken Coop

A secure, well-ventilated coop is the heart of your backyard chicken operation. It provides shelter, protection from predators, and a safe space to lay eggs.

Coop Essentials:

  • Size: Allow about 3–4 square feet per bird inside the coop, and 8–10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run
  • Roosting bars: Chickens sleep off the ground—give them 8–10 inches of perch space each
  • Nest boxes: 1 box for every 3–4 hens (lined with straw or shavings for comfort)
  • Ventilation: Critical to reduce moisture and ammonia buildup
  • Predator-proofing: Use hardware cloth (not chicken wire) and secure latches to protect from raccoons, foxes, and weasels

Additional Features:

  • Insulation: In colder climates, insulate the coop and protect against drafts (but maintain airflow)
  • Electricity: Optional, but useful for water heaters and lights during winter months
  • Easy access: A human-sized door and removable panels make cleaning easier

4. Daily Chicken Care Routine

Raising chickens doesn’t have to be complicated, but they do need consistent care.

Daily Tasks:

  • Feed and water: Provide constant access to clean water and layer feed
  • Check for eggs: Collect eggs daily to keep them clean and avoid broodiness
  • Quick health check: Watch for limping, drooping, or signs of illness
  • Secure the coop: Lock chickens in at dusk and open at dawn (manually or with an automatic door)

Weekly Tasks:

  • Refill bedding in nest boxes
  • Clean feeders and waterers
  • Inspect for mites or lice (look at the base of feathers)

Monthly Tasks:

  • Deep-clean coop (scrape droppings, replace bedding)
  • Check structural integrity (wire, latches, perches)

5. Egg Collection and Storage

Most backyard hens start laying around 5 to 6 months of age. A healthy hen can lay between 3 to 6 eggs per week, depending on the breed, age, and season.

Tips for Egg Collection:

  • Collect eggs at least once per day, ideally twice
  • Store eggs unwashed if you’re keeping them at room temperature (they have a natural protective coating)
  • If you do wash them, refrigerate immediately

Eggs from backyard hens may vary in size and colour—and they often taste richer and fresher than store-bought eggs.

6. Common Challenges (And How to Handle Them)

Winter Care

  • Chickens tolerate cold better than heat but need protection from drafts and frostbite
  • Use deep litter bedding for warmth and add extra scratch grains for energy
  • Ensure water doesn’t freeze (heated bowls or water heaters help)

Predators

  • Lock up chickens at night
  • Bury hardware cloth around the run perimeter to prevent digging
  • Use motion lights or fencing if needed

Broodiness

  • Some hens will try to hatch eggs (even unfertilized ones) and stop laying
  • Remove broody hens from the nest box or place them in a separate area to “break” the behaviour

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Learn as You Go

Raising backyard chickens is a rewarding experience that connects you with your food, teaches responsibility, and provides a steady supply of fresh eggs. With the right setup, daily attention, and a bit of patience, your backyard flock can thrive in any Canadian climate.

Start small, build your confidence, and enjoy the journey—feathered friends and all.

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