Getting Started with Chickens
Thinking about raising chickens? Whether you want fresh eggs, homegrown meat, or simply some feathered companions, starting with chickens can be one of the most rewarding backyard projects you’ll ever take on. This complete guide walks you through everything you need—from research and supplies to choosing breeds and ordering your birds. Stromberg’s Chickens makes it easy to start your backyard flock with confidence.
Why Raise Chickens?
With proper preparation and quality supplies, chickens are surprisingly easy to care for — even for beginners.
- Fresh, nutritious eggs
- Sustainable food production
- Natural pest control
- Family-friendly farm experiences
- Educational opportunities for kids
Raising chickens offers:
Choose the Right Breed
Browse the full selection of live birds and breed options at Stromberg’s Chickens, where you can view all available chicks, adult birds, ducklings, goslings, turkeys, and specialty poultry.
- Leghorns (white eggs)
- Rhode Island Reds
- Production Reds
- Sex Links
- Wyandottes
If fresh eggs are your goal, look for dependable, high-production hens like:
- Cornish Rock Cross
- Pioneer Slow Growers
A popular breeds for homesteaders and small farms for efficient meat production.
- Plymouth Rocks
- Sussex
- Orpingtons
Dual-Purpose Breeds are perfect for chicken farmers wanting eggs and meat. Breeds like:
- Silkies
- Polish
- Rare & Heritage Breeds
Raising chickens for fun, beauty, or exhibition? Consider:
Gather the Right Supplies
Your flock’s comfort and health depend on the right equipment. Supplies vary depending on whether you’re starting with baby chicks or adult birds.
- Brooder – A safe, enclosed space to keep chicks warm.
- Heat Source – Heat lamp or plate to maintain starter temperatures.
- Thermometer – Keeps track of brooder temperature.
- Chick Feeder & Waterer – Designed to minimize waste and keep water clean.
- Starter Feed – High-protein feed (18–22%) essential for growth.
For Chicks
- Chicken Coop – Secure shelter from weather and predators.
- Feeders & Waterers – Sized to your flock, with heated waterers for cold climates.
- Chicken Feed – Layer feed for egg production or specialized meat feeds.
- Grit & Oyster Shell – Grit aids digestion, oyster shell boosts eggshell strength.
- Supplements – Probiotics and natural health boosters improve flock wellness.
For Adult Chickens
Chick Starter Checklist
Before your chicks arrive, have your brooder fully prepared.
- Brooder box or tub
- Heat lamp or brooder plate
- Thermometer (95°F first week)
- Chick feeder
- Chick waterer
- Chick starter feed (18–22% protein)
- Paper Towels & Pine shavings bedding (We highly recommend using paper towels for the first few days of introduction to prevent chicks from consuming the shavings.)
- Supplements
Essential Brooder Supplies:
Temperature should decrease 5°F each week until chicks are fully feathered
(around 6 weeks).
Coop Setup Essentials
At 6+ weeks, chicks transition to their coop.
- Secure, predator-proof structure
- Proper ventilation
- Nesting boxes (1 per 3–4 hens)
- Roosting bars
- Layer feed
- Oyster shell (calcium)
- Grit for digestion
- Clean, fresh water
Every Coop Needs:
Cold climate? Consider heated waterers during winter months.
Ordering Your Chicks
Stromberg’s Chickens partners with trusted U.S. hatcheries to provide healthy, high-quality birds. Popular breeds sell out quickly — early ordering is recommended, especially in spring.
- Choose your breeds
- Select your ship date (when availabile)
- Chicks ship safely to your local post office
- Pick up promptly and place into a warmed brooder
How It Works:
Welcoming Your New Flock
- Pick them up promptly.
- Ensure the brooder is warmed up and ready.
- Dip each chick’s beak in water so they know where to drink.
- Provide quality starter feeds and supplements.
- Boost hatchling development with Peck n' Grow! Within weeks, they’ll feather out and be ready to transition to their coop—and soon you’ll be enjoying the results of your hard work!
Once your chicks arrive:
Ready to Get Started?
Raising chickens doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right plan—and the right supplies—you’ll be collecting fresh eggs before you know it.
Why Shop Stromberg’s Chickens?
- Large selection of live poultry
- Quality poultry supplies & equipment
- Expert educational resources
- Reliable nationwide shipping
- Friendly customer support
For over a century, Stromberg’s has served backyard poultry keepers, homesteaders, and small farms with:
Whether you're raising 4 hens or 40, we’re here to help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many chickens should a beginner start with?
Most beginners start with 4–6 hens. Chickens are social animals and do best in small flocks.
How long before chickens start laying eggs?
Most laying breeds begin producing eggs around 18–24 weeks of age.
Do chickens need a rooster to lay eggs?
No. Hens lay eggs without a rooster. A rooster is only needed for fertilized eggs.
How much space do chickens need?
Plan for at least:
2–4 square feet per bird inside the coop
8–10 square feet per bird in an outdoor run
What do baby chicks eat?
Chicks need a high-protein starter feed (18–22%) for proper growth.