types – TBN Ranch Chicken Keeping Resources

What is a Proper Roost for Chickens?

What Should a Roost Be Made Of, How High, and What Size?

This can be a complicated question because the answer somewhat varies. Although most articles you’ll read will say 8 inches per bird, this in my opinion is an argument waiting to happen. When it comes to chickens, space means everything. Bigger is better to keep peace among a flock. If the roost is too small the birds lowest in the pecking order will be bullied.
It’s best to avoid plastic and metal roosts, plastic is slippery, and metal can be either too cold or too hot, depending on the climate where you live.
Wooden 2×2 roosts are the favorite, the flat surface allows chickens to roost comfortably and also allows them to cover their feet in cold weather. Round roosts make keeping their feet warm difficult. You can use 2×4 roosts too, but keep in mind that’s a bigger surface and may be harder to keep clean.
The roost should be long enough to accommodate all the chickens in the flock. Ideally, each chicken should have at least 10 – 12 inches of roosting space.
The roosting bars should be higher than the nest boxes, at least 3 feet high, but some higher would be preferred with a ladder or ramp to access. This also helps prevent injuries from your birds jumping down from a high roost. Harmony among the flock keeps everybody happy, so having more than one roost is recommended.

Need Some Help Choosing a Roost?
Here Are Over 50 Different Types and Creative Ideas To View

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Choosing the Right Feed For Chicks and Chickens

What The Labels Mean
Which One is Right For Your Birds

There are many brands to choose from, these randomly picked brands will give you an idea of what each feed type is for. I have fed all these brands and have been happy with them.

Starter / Grower Feed

Specifically formulated for baby chicks.
You will feed this all the way until the first egg.

Layer Pellets (I feed my hens this brand)

Layer Feed: This feed is for adult laying hens that are producing eggs. It usually contains higher levels of calcium and other nutrients to support egg production and shell formation. Also available in crumbles, either is suitable for your birds.

Broiler/ Meat Bird

This feed is formulated specifically for meat chickens, also known as broilers. It has higher levels of protein and energy to promote rapid weight gain and muscle development.
I mix this higher protein feed in my Silkies’ feed as they tend to need a bit more protein than other breeds.

Scratch Grains

Scratch grains are a mixture of grains such as corn, wheat, and barley, and are typically fed as a treat or supplement rather than as a complete feed. Scratch should not be the sole source of nutrition.

Organic Feed (Expensive)

Organic chicken feed is made from ingredients that are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Medicated Chick Starter

Medicated chicken feed that contains added antibiotics.
I use medicated feed for mail-order chicks for the first week after they arrive.

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100+ Brooder Ideas for Baby Chicks

What Is a Brooder? Why You Need One, & Ideas For Choosing Your Own

View A collection of Brooder Box Ideas

A brooder for chicks is a special enclosure or container designed to provide a warm and safe environment for newly hatched chicks to grow and develop until they are fully feathered. You can expect your chicks to be fully feathered somewhere between 5 & 8 weeks.
Brooders can be made of various materials, including cardboard boxes, plastic containers, or specially designed enclosures. They typically include a heat source, such as radiant heat or a heat lamp to keep the chicks warm. Inside the brooder will be bedding material, such as pine shavings to absorb moisture and provide a soft surface for the chicks to rest on, as well as a feeder & drinker especially made for baby chicks.
The goal of a brooder is to create an environment that mimics the warmth and protection provided by a mother hen, helping to ensure the health and well-being of the young chicks as they grow and develop.
Chicks need a brooder because they are not able to regulate their body temperature effectively when they are first hatched. They need to be kept warm in a controlled environment until they are able to maintain their own body heat.
The brooder also needs to be kept clean and dry to prevent the chicks from getting sick or developing health problems. Adequate ventilation is also important to ensure that the air inside the brooder is fresh and the chicks have access to oxygen.
Raising chicks should be fun, so being creative with a brooder box is encouraged. Here are over 100 ideas to inspire you.