By Cindy King, CPH, The Mill of Kingstown
Thinking of Raising Chickens?
I've been keeping a backyard flock for over 18 years, and I still get excited each spring when I add new hens to my coop. The fresh eggs, quirky personalities, and daily routines have become part of my life—and I've learned a lot about what makes chickens thrive (and what can go wrong).
Whether you're just starting your flock or want to improve your coop setup, here are my best tips for keeping chickens healthy, safe, and productive all year long.
Start with a Safe Coop Setup
A good coop is your first defense against predators, weather, and stress. Make sure your chickens have:
- A secure, predator-proof coop for roosting at night
- Proper ventilation, with windows or vents on opposite sides for airflow
- 3–4 square feet of indoor space per bird
- 10–12 square feet per bird in the run
- One nest box for every four hens
Adding dusting areas with dry soil, diatomaceous earth, or fine sand is important—this helps chickens naturally clean their feathers and combat mites or lice.
Predator Protection: Above and Below
To keep predators out:
- Use netting over the run, extended 12–15 feet from the coop to guard against birds of prey.
- Install rat wire or hardware cloth 12 inches out from the base of your coop. Remove sod, lay the wire flat, and cover it with stones.
Introducing New Chicks to the Flock
When bringing home new chicks, start by placing them in a separate brooder. Once feathered, move them into the coop—but fenced off from older birds. They’ll need their own roost box and time to get used to the flock.
After 7–10 days, remove the fence in the morning and observe. A little pecking is normal, but with space, the younger birds can stay safe. Keep the roost box until they start sleeping in the main coop.
Watering Tips for Every Season
In summer: Freeze water in plastic containers to keep waterers cool. Move them to shaded areas.
In winter: Rotate two waterers—keep one thawed indoors while the other is in the coop.
Feed Smart to Avoid Rodents
Feed your chickens each morning using a feeder and scratch grains tossed into the run. Only feed what they’ll clean up in 10 minutes to prevent attracting rodents and wild birds.
Treats like mealworms and veggie scraps are fine—just ensure they’re eaten quickly.
Egg Collection & Care 
Collect eggs daily. Wipe them gently with warm water and a paper towel if needed. Never use soap or cleaning agents—the natural “bloom” protects the egg from bacteria.
Snakes & Rodents
Occasionally I find a snake in the coop. As long as I’m not losing eggs and I’ve seen rodents, I leave it be. Snakes can help deter pests naturally.
Free-Range Chickens & Garden Survival
Free-ranging chickens are excellent for natural insect control. They'll gobble up ticks, beetles, and other garden pests.
But... they’ll also dig up mulch, eat tender plants, and scratch roots if left unattended.
Cindy’s Tip: I dump buckets of weeds, grass clippings, and veggie scraps into their run. They get their greens—and my garden stays safe!
Give Your Birds Their Best Life
Chickens are hardy, but they need the right environment to stay safe and productive. With good housing, clean water, proper feeding, and a little extra care, your flock will reward you with eggs—and lots of personality—for years to come.
Ready to Start or Grow Your Flock?
Stop by The Mill for:
- Poultry feed for all types and life stages
- Chick starter supplies
- Feeders, waterers, and bedding
- Expert advice on coop setup and flock care
Visit us online or stop by in person. We’re here to help new and experienced poultry owners alike!
