How to Care for Hen Chickens

Adult female chickens, or hens, have specific care requirements to maintain health. Hens typically have a trouble-free disposition and lack the aggression of roosters, making it easier for you to handle and take care of them. Hens do better in a small flock of eight or less than as a lone bird or in a large group. Whether you keep hens for egg production, meat, as pets or as a 4-H project, they have the same basic needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Chicken coop
  • Straw
  • Perches
  • Water container
  • Chicken food
  • Grit
  • Dirt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide safe housing and plenty of space in a pen for the hens. The coop should protect the chickens from predators and prevent escape. Each bird needs a minimum of 3-square feet of floor space.

    • 2

      Give the chickens an outside pen or allow them to free range. Access to fresh air, room to exercise and sunlight keeps hens healthy. Chickens need space to forage and scratch the ground or they can develop self-destructive habits.

    • 3

      Spread a clean layer of straw or dry shavings on the floor of the housing. Turn the nesting material when it becomes soiled. Remove and replace it when it becomes wet, crusty or has an odor. The length of time the material lasts depends on the number of chickens and the amount of time they spend in the coop.

    • 4

      Supply perches for the chickens. Chickens prefer to roost up high at night as a protective mechanism. Perches inside the coop allow them to sleep comfortably.

    • 5

      Give the birds clean water every day. They should have 24-hour access to fresh water. Use a special chicken water container or a heavy, low bowl that you clean daily.

    • 6

      Feed the chickens at a regular time daily. A balanced pellet available at feed stores works fine for hens. Provide grit and kitchen scraps, such as vegetable trimmings, to add variety to the diet.

    • 7

      Check the hens' health. Look for any signs of sickness, such as not eating or drinking. Check for lice and other skin irritations.

    • 8

      Provide access to a sandy or dry dirt area. Chickens dust bathe to clean their feather and remove excess oils.