THE BASICS

(Not veterinary advice—just what we’ve found works best for our chickens over the years!)

THE BASICS

  • Plan for predators, even if you think you don’t have any! Feral cats, foxes, quolls, eagles, and dogs can all pose a threat.

  • The more space, the better! Small areas will quickly be stripped of greenery and turn to mud in the wet season. If your birds live in a smaller space, try to create different zones that can be rested.

  • Healthy chickens can live 7–8 years or more!

  • Cross-breeds are hardy, but avoid crossing birds that are already hybrids (e.g. our girls are crosses, but our rooster is a purebred).

  • Common Australian breeds: Isa Brown, Australorp, Leghorn, Rhode Island Red, Orpington, and Barnevelder.

  • Pretty favourites: Brahma, Wyandotte, Plymouth Rock, and of course Silkies ❤️

WHY KEEP CHOOKS?

  • Fresh, healthy, cruelty-free eggs

  • Reduced food waste

  • Loving, entertaining pets

  • Excellent garden helpers and a great addition to the permaculture cycle

SLEEPING SOUNDLY

  • Make sure the coop door closes snugly at night with no gaps for predators to dig under, squeeze through, or break flimsy wire. Quolls and foxes can wipe out a flock in one night.

  • Chickens like to roost up high, out of danger—provide rounded wood or tree branches for perching. We tie in branches or scrap timber and replace them once or twice a year.

  • Ensure easy access to and from perches.

  • Avoid placing perches directly over food or water.

ROOSTING RIGHT

  • Train new birds by feeding grain in the hen house at first.

  • If any don’t go in at night (or you’re adding new birds), wait until dark, pick them up (chickens can’t see in the dark and won’t run), and place them inside. Usually, 2–3 nights is all it takes.

  • Health checks, worming, and treatments are easiest before sunrise or after sunset—your birds will be calm and easy to handle.

PECKING ORDER

  • Bullying can be deadly—introduce new birds slowly.

  • Give newcomers a week in a safe space where others can see them but not touch.

  • You don’t need a rooster for eggs, but we’ve found our hens are calmer and less aggressive with one around.

DIET & WATER

  • Fresh water daily, ideally under shelter to avoid freezing or heating.

  • Keep backup water in case one source fails.

  • For healthy chickens and good egg production, provide plenty of protein and calcium—a complete layer mix is an easy starting point.

  • Protect feed from moisture and rodents.

  • Mould is toxic—discard any food contaminated by vermin or mould, including scraps.

  • Keep feed and water away from native birds and pests to prevent disease.

  • Provide shell grit during heavy laying periods and fresh leafy greens year-round.

DUST BATHS

  • Dust bathing keeps chickens healthy by reducing lice and mites and removing excess oils.

  • Free-ranging birds will often make their own under a tree or hedge.

  • To build one, ensure the sand or soil stays dry all year (even a sheet of tin as cover works).

ENJOY YOUR CHICKENS!

Chickens bring joy, character, and life to any home and garden. Children learn so much from caring for these long-loved, useful birds. Look after them well, and they’ll reward you many times over!

~ Mel & Dan