How to keep chickens in your backyard

Research chicken breeds and decide which breed is best for your environment. For the southern Highlands the best chicken breed is Iser Brown, Australrop, Rhode Island Red or White Leghorn.

If you are buying a chicken coop then go to the local co-op and get the best for your backyard.

If you are building a chicken coop, build according to size and shape of your backyard and how many chickens you want. An example of how to build one is http://howtobuildachickencoopmanual.com

Once you have built the coop (if building) make sure you have a space for nesting. This could be some old shelves or make your own frame.

Make sure that chickens also have a place to perch. They need a perch because they love to perch, it helps hens feel safe from predators and helps them keep warm.

When you have placed a nesting box, go and buy your chicken/s from local pet shop, co-op or legal breeder.

Make sure chickens have been vaccinated if still chicks. Most sellers all have chickens vaccinated before pick up.

For the first week or two you will need to keep chickens in the pen so they can get familiar with the pen but also so they do not run away.

After 1-2 weeks you will be able to let the chicken/s out. You should do this daily as the chickens will not feel trapped or not have enough room to move. They need plenty of room to move and run.

Check each day that water is full and clean and give appropriate amounts of food for the amount and age of chicken/s.