How to Raise a City Chicken

City chickens are usually raised in a small space without many heavy expenses. These chickens provide meat, eggs, a source of manure for your garden and entertaintment for children who raise the chicks. Chickens do not make too much noise, and are good house pets. Many city dwellers raise their own poultry.

Things You'll Need

  • Coop
  • Fencing
  • Chick or pullets
  • Water container
  • Feeder
  • Bedding
  • Food
  • Water
  • Brooder
  • Heat Source
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ask your local zoning office about the laws and ordinances regarding chickens. Roosters are often not allowed, as they tend to be noisy. Cities generally restrict the number of chickens that can be kept in a single location.

    • 2

      Inform your neighbors that you are keeping chickens. This is not mandatory, but it goes far toward keeping up amicable relationships.

    • 3

      Decide the number of chickens you want to raise, and the space available to house them. Chickens require an enclosed, outdoor space in which to spend the day. An insulated hen house is needed at night, when the chickens sleep.

    • 4

      Research the wide range of breeds available. Chickens are available in many colors, shapes, styles and sizes. Find the chicken breed that satisfies your likes and intentions.

    • 5

      Build or purchase a coop. Protect your chicken coop from predators by fencing it securely.

    • 6

      Research further, and determine if you want to breed with chicks or pullets. Pullets are about six-months old, and can be moved directly into the coop. Chicks must be kept under special care until they are about three-months old.

    • 7

      Obtain your chicks from a reputable hatchery or farmer.

    • 8

      Equip the coop with supplies like water containers, feeders, bedding, brooders and a heat source.

    • 9

      Purchase food for the chicks. Stock large supplies of clean and fresh water; chickens can dehydrate quickly.