Keeping backyard chickens is becoming increasingly popular among both urban and rural homeowners. Not only do they provide fresh eggs, but they also make excellent pets and can help reduce food waste by consuming kitchen scraps. If you're interested in starting your own backyard chicken coop, here's a step-by-step guide on how to set it up:

Step 1: Determine the Size of the Coop

Before purchasing or building a coop, consider the size of your yard and how many chickens you want to keep. Each chicken requires at least 3-4 square feet of space in the coop and at least 10 square feet of space in the outdoor run. For example, if you plan to keep four chickens, you'll need a coop that is at least 12-16 square feet.

Step 2: Choose the Location

The location of the coop is important for both the chickens and the homeowner. Choose an area that is away from the house but still easily accessible for daily chores. Ensure that the coop is protected from the elements, such as wind and rain, and is situated in a well-drained area.

Step 3: Choose the Type of Coop

There are many different types of coops available, including pre-made options and DIY plans. Consider the materials, cost, and complexity of the design before making a decision. Also, consider any predators in your area and choose a coop with appropriate protection.

Step 4: Build or Assemble the Coop

If you've chosen to build your own coop, make sure to follow the plans carefully and use appropriate materials. If you've chosen to purchase a pre-made coop, follow the assembly instructions carefully. Ensure that the coop is sturdy and secure.

Step 5: Install the Run

Chickens need access to outdoor space, so it's important to install a secure run. Use chicken wire or hardware cloth to keep predators out and ensure that the area is large enough for your chickens to roam and forage.

Step 6: Add Bedding

Cover the floor of the coop with a layer of bedding material, such as straw or wood shavings. This will absorb moisture and odors and make it easier to clean the coop. Change the bedding regularly to maintain a clean and healthy living environment for your chickens.

Step 7: Provide Nesting Boxes

Chickens need a safe and comfortable place to lay their eggs, so provide nesting boxes inside the coop. Each nesting box should be at least 12x12 inches and lined with straw or other soft bedding.

Step 8: Install a Feeder and Waterer

Chickens need access to fresh food and water at all times, so install a feeder and waterer inside the coop. These should be kept clean and refilled daily.

Step 9: Add Perches

Chickens like to roost, so provide perches inside the coop. These should be at least 2 inches wide and positioned higher than the nesting boxes.

Step 10: Maintain the Coop

To keep your chickens healthy and happy, it's important to maintain a clean and safe living environment. Clean the coop and run regularly, change the bedding, and monitor for any signs of illness or disease.

In conclusion, setting up a backyard chicken coop can be a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps to ensure that your chickens have a safe and comfortable home and that you have a steady supply of fresh eggs. And remember to enjoy your chickens! Once your coop is set up and your chickens are settled in, it's time to sit back and enjoy the many benefits of backyard chicken keeping. You'll have fresh eggs, some fun and quirky pets, and a new appreciation for the joys of rural living.

Chickens are one of the most common domesticated animals around the world, providing meat and eggs to billions of people. However, there are many interesting facts about these feathered friends that many people may not know. Read on as we explore 10 fun facts that you probably didn't know about chickens, even if you already keep them in your backyard!

1) Chickens have a language of their own
Chickens have a complex communication system that includes over 30 distinct sounds, each with a different meaning. For example, a cluck can indicate food, while a series of soft chirps can signal to chicks that it's time to settle down for the night. Roosters also have a unique crow that they use to establish their territory and attract mates.

2) Chickens are smarter than we think
Contrary to popular belief, chickens are actually quite intelligent animals. They have excellent spatial awareness and can navigate complex mazes with ease. In fact, studies have shown that chickens can even perform basic arithmetic and understand cause and effect.

3) Chickens can see in color
While it was once thought that chickens could only see in black and white, research has shown that they are actually able to see a range of colors. This means that they are able to distinguish between different hues, making them more visually aware of their environment.

4) Chickens have excellent memory
Chickens have an impressive ability to remember things, including faces and other chickens in their flock. They also have a good sense of direction and are able to navigate back to their coop even after being taken on a long walk.

5) Chickens have a strong sense of community
Chickens are highly social animals that thrive in a group environment. They have a clear social hierarchy within their flock, with each chicken having a distinct rank. This helps to promote stability and reduces stress within the group.

6) Chickens can fly (sort of)
While chickens may not be known for their flying abilities, they are actually able to fly short distances. Most chickens are able to fly up to 10 feet in the air, although some breeds can fly even higher. However, due to their heavy weight and small wings, they are not able to sustain flight for long periods of time.

7) Chickens have unique personalities
Just like people, chickens have their own distinct personalities. Some are shy and timid, while others are outgoing and friendly. Certain breeds are known for being particularly docile or assertive, and individual chickens may have their own unique quirks and habits.

8) Chickens are related to dinosaurs
While it may seem hard to believe, chickens are actually related to dinosaurs. Specifically, they are descendants of the tyrannosaurus rex, with whom they share many physical characteristics (though luckily, they are slightly less dangerous 😀)

9) Chickens are good for the environment
Chickens can be a sustainable source of food production, providing eggs and meat with a much lower carbon footprint than traditional livestock. They also help to reduce food waste by eating scraps and leftovers, and their manure is a rich fertilizer that can be used to grow crops.

10) Chickens have a rich cultural history
Chickens have played an important role in many cultures throughout history. In Chinese mythology, for example, the rooster is a symbol of good luck and is often associated with the dawn. In Hinduism, chickens are considered sacred animals and are often used in religious ceremonies. Chickens have also been featured in art, literature, and popular culture throughout the ages.

In conclusion, chickens are fascinating animals with a rich history and many unique traits. From their complex communication system to their impressive memory and navigation abilities, there's more to these feathered friends than meets the eye. Whether you're a backyard chicken owner or simply interested in learning more about these amazing animals, we hope that at least a few of the interesting facts we listed were new to you.

Backyard chicken coops are a great addition to any household that enjoys fresh eggs and an entertaining pet. However, with this great addition comes the task of maintaining the chicken coop, which includes dealing with the soiled bedding. The bedding material in chicken coops must be replaced regularly to ensure that the coop remains clean and healthy for the chickens. This can be a daunting task, but there are several ways to effectively get rid of backyard chicken coop bedding. Here, we're sharing five effective ways we believe work well to get rid of backyard chicken coop bedding.

1) Composting
Composting chicken coop bedding is one of the most popular methods of waste disposal for backyard chicken keepers. Composting not only provides a way to get rid of the bedding but also creates nutrient-rich soil for use in gardens and flower beds. Chicken manure is a great source of nitrogen and other minerals that can help your plants grow. When composting, it is important to maintain the right balance of nitrogen-rich materials, such as the bedding and manure, and carbon-rich materials, such as leaves and straw, to ensure proper decomposition. Turning the compost pile regularly can also help to speed up the process.

2) Vermicomposting
Another option for disposing of chicken coop bedding is vermicomposting. Vermicomposting is the process of using worms to break down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. The worms consume the bedding and manure, leaving behind a nutrient-rich soil amendment known as worm castings. Worm castings are high in nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and can be used to improve soil quality in gardens and flower beds. Vermicomposting is an environmentally friendly option for disposing of chicken coop bedding and can be done indoors or outdoors.

3) Mulching
If you have a large property, you may consider using chicken coop bedding as mulch. Mulching helps to suppress weed growth, retain moisture in the soil, and provide nutrients to plants. Chicken manure is a great source of nitrogen, making it an excellent fertilizer for many plants. However, it is important to note that fresh chicken manure should not be used as mulch directly on plants as it can burn them. Instead, it should be composted or aged before use.

4) Burning
Burning chicken coop bedding is another option for waste disposal, but it is not recommended due to the potential release of harmful gases and pollutants. Burning also contributes to air pollution and can be hazardous to the environment and your health. If you choose to burn your chicken coop bedding, make sure to do so in a safe and legal manner, following all local regulations and guidelines.

5) Disposal
If you do not have access to composting or other waste disposal methods, you may need to dispose of chicken coop bedding through regular trash pickup. However, it is important to note that chicken manure is considered a hazardous material and may not be accepted by all waste disposal services. Check with your local waste management provider to ensure that chicken coop bedding is accepted for disposal and follow any guidelines or regulations for proper disposal.


In conclusion, there are several effective ways to get rid of backyard chicken coop bedding. Composting, vermicomposting, mulching, and proper disposal are environmentally friendly options that can benefit your garden and the planet. Burning should be avoided due to potential hazards and pollution. Choose the method that works best for you and also keep in mind local regulations on what can and cannot be done.