homestead how-to

Bringing Home Fresh Eggs Starts with a Backyard Flock

A well-designed coop should offer at least four square feet of indoor space per chicken, giving them enough room to roost and move comfortably.

Coop & Run

Each box should be lined with straw or wood shavings to create a soft, comfortable space where hens feel secure while laying eggs. 

Nesting Boxes

Each bird needs 8 to 12 inches of space to comfortably settle in for the night without feeling overcrowded. 

Perches/Roosts

Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire, as it provides stronger protection against raccoons, foxes, hawks, and other threats.

Secure Fencing & Predator Protection

Invest in a sturdy, easy-to-clean design that holds enough food and water to last at least 24 hours, reducing the need for frequent refills.

Feeder & Waterer

Once hens reach laying age, switch to layer feed containing higher protein and calcium to support egg production.

High-Quality Feed

Chickens need grit to digest food and oyster shells for strong eggshells. This is typically sold as scratch and is fairly inexpensive.

Grit & Oyster Shells

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Homestead How-To

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