Raising chickens while working a full-time job may sound daunting, but it’s completely doable with the right routine and setup. The secret? A well-planned system and consistent daily care. Once your chickens are settled into a safe, organized setup, daily maintenance becomes straightforward, even with a busy schedule.
In this post, I’ll share my daily routine for raising chickens while working full-time, including both the morning and evening tasks, plus tips to make care as easy as possible.
Morning Routine: Setting the Day Up Right
Mornings are all about checking on your flock and making sure everyone is ready for the day. My morning routine usually takes around 10-15 minutes:
Check on the Flock
I make sure all chickens are safe in their coop or run.
I look for any signs of injury or illness.
Feed & Water
Ensure all food and waterers are full.
If I’m fermenting feed, I prepare it ahead so it’s ready for the day.
Safety & Shelter Check
Make sure doors, latches, and fencing are secure.
Look for signs of predators or weak spots in fencing.
Food Scraps
I feed any leftover scraps from dinner to the flock in the morning—they love it and it helps reduce kitchen waste.
💡 Tip: Keep a notebook or use your phone to note anything that needs maintenance or attention on the weekend. That way, small fixes don’t pile up and emergencies can be handled immediately.
Evening Routine: Wrapping Up the Day
Evenings are all about preparing for the next day and collecting rewards—like fresh eggs! My evening routine usually takes 5-10 minutes:
Collect Eggs
I gather eggs from the nesting boxes.
This prevents eggs from getting dirty or broken and keeps chickens laying consistently.
Prepare Feed & Water
Check waterers again(sometimes they knock them over).
Check for Issues
Look for anything unusual—injuries, sick birds, or broken equipment.
💡 Tip: Evening feed preparation is a great time to double-check supplies like bedding, supplements, and grain so you won’t run out mid-week.
Why Setup is Key
One of the biggest challenges when raising chickens while working full-time is the initial setup. A well-planned coop, secure run, easy-access feeders, and waterers make daily care much faster and less stressful.
Once setup is complete, daily care becomes manageable, even with a busy schedule. Consistency is key—chickens thrive on routine and predictability.
Extra Tips for Busy Homesteaders
Automate When Possible: Gravity-fed feeders, automatic waterers, and timers for lights in winter can save time(if you use them, they aren’t mandatory).
Keep Tools Handy: A small tote with extra feed, gloves, and cleaning supplies keeps you efficient.
Batch Maintenance: Use weekends to tackle larger tasks like deep cleaning or coop repairs.
Stay Observant: Quick daily checks prevent small problems from turning into emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Raising chickens while working full-time is absolutely possible with a consistent routine and well-thought-out setup. Mornings are for checking the flock and setting them up for the day, evenings are for collecting eggs and prepping for tomorrow, and weekends are for bigger maintenance tasks.
With a little organization, you can enjoy the rewards of fresh eggs, happy chickens, and a thriving homestead without burning out.
Your turn: How do you manage your flock with a busy schedule? Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear!
Need Help Staying Organized With Your Flock?
If you’re raising chickens, having a simple system makes everything easier.
I created a Chicken Binder to help you track feed, egg production, health checks, and flock management all in one place.
Whether you’re a new homesteader or a seasoned pro, providing your chickens with a safe and comfortable home is crucial for their health and productivity. A well-designed chicken coop not only keeps your flock secure from predators but also offers them a comfortable environment to lay eggs and thrive. If you’re building or upgrading your chicken coop, there are several essentials to consider, from ventilation and nesting boxes to predator-proofing. Plus, with a little creativity, you can reuse and recycle materials to keep your budget in check.
If you are new to owning chickens or they are in your forseeable future you should check out this Beginner article! I give you a run down of all the basics to give you a head start.
Good airflow is one of the most important aspects of a chicken coop. Chickens produce moisture, heat, and waste that can quickly make the air stuffy and unhealthy if not properly ventilated. Inadequate ventilation can lead to respiratory problems and poor egg production.
Tips for Proper Ventilation
Windows and Vents: Install adjustable windows or vents at different heights around the coop. Higher vents allow warm air to escape, while lower vents let fresh air in.
Cross-Ventilation: Make sure air can flow across the coop from one side to the other. This can be achieved by placing vents or windows on opposite walls.
Natural Ventilation:Position the coop in a shaded area to help keep temperatures down during the summer months.
If you’re working with a tight budget, consider using old window frames, mesh, or even plastic vent covers from a local salvage yard to create effective ventilation.
Bedding: Creating a Clean Environment
Choosing the right bedding for your chicken coop is essential for their health, comfort and cleanliness. Here are some of the best bedding types for your coop.
Wood Shavings: Pine or cedar both work well. They’re highly absobent, helping to manage moisture and control odors in your coop.
Straw/Hay: Provides a soft, cushioned bedding thats great for nesting boxes. Its cheap, easily replaced, biodegradable and helps provide extra warmth in the winter.
Construction Sand: Easy to clean, drains well so it’s great for managing moisture and odors. It also provides a natural surface for chickens to take their dust baths in.
Compost- AKA The Deep Litter Method: This method involves using straw, hay or other organice materials like leaves that naturally compost over time. Instead of changing out the bedding your just add to it. This promotes a natural decomposition, creating a self-cleaning system that requires less changing but keeps chickens in a warm and dry environment.
Nesting Boxes: Comfort and Privacy for Egg-Laying
Nesting boxes are a must-have for any chicken coop. They provide a private, secure space for hens to lay eggs and encourage them to lay in the right spot instead of on the floor. Proper nesting boxes can help prevent egg breakage and keep your eggs clean.
Nesting Box Tips
Size: Each box should be around 12 inches by 12 inches, and you can add a few extra boxes to accommodate your flock size. Typically, one box per 3-4 hens is sufficient.
Height: Place the boxes about 18 inches off the ground, so hens feel safe but can easily access them.
Bedding: Use straw, hay, or wood shavings for bedding inside the boxes. Not only does this provide comfort, but it also helps absorb moisture.
For a budget-friendly option, repurpose wooden crates, old cabinets, or even milk cartons to make your nesting boxes. You can often find these items at thrift stores, yard sales, or even for free from neighbors.
Predator-Proofing: Keeping Your Flock Safe
One of the biggest threats to your chickens is predators. Raccoons, foxes, weasels, and even neighborhood dogs can cause serious harm to your flock if your coop isn’t secure. A well-built, predator-proof chicken coop will give you peace of mind and keep your chickens safe.
Predator-Proofing Tips
Strong Construction: Use sturdy materials for the coop frame, such as treated lumber or recycled pallets. Make sure all doors and windows close securely.
Wire Mesh: Use 1-inch hardware cloth for windows and doors. Avoid chicken wire, as predators can easily tear through it. If you want to secure the floor of the coop, bury the wire 6 inches into the ground to prevent digging predators.
Secure Latches: Install heavy-duty locks or latches on doors and nesting boxes to prevent raccoons from opening them.
Roof Protection: A solid roof, either metal or sturdy plywood, is essential. Ensure it is secure to prevent predators from sneaking in from above.
If you’re on a budget, you can recycle old fencing, wire, or scrap lumber from construction projects. This is a great way to save money and still keep your flock safe.
Also please keep in mind that many people choose to free range their flock and that is perfectly fine. Depending on where you live that may be a feasible option for you. I have personally done both and choose to have mine cooped up most of the year. After garden season is over, I like to let them out but I do notice a higher rate of death when I let mine free range. Whether its due to illness or predators.
Insulation and Comfort: Keeping Your Flock Happy Year-Round
Chickens need protection from both the cold and heat, so it’s important to think about insulation in your coop. This will help maintain a comfortable temperature for your chickens in every season.
Comfort Tips
Winter Insulation: If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to insulate your coop to keep your chickens warm in the winter. Use recycled foam panels, cardboard, or even old insulation materials to line the walls.
Summer Cooling: In hot weather, ensure your coop has plenty of shade and airflow. You can make a simple shade structure from recycled tarps or old roofing materials to create a cooler environment.
Depending on your climate and the breed of chickens you keep, winter insulation may not be necessary. Chickens can tolerate cold temperatures, and it’s best to keep them as natural as possible. I don’t insulate my coop during the winter months but I do use the deep litter method to help maintain a warmer temperature in their coop. I also have chickens who still prefer to roost outside even with snow on the ground. However, if you live in a climate where the temperature drops below zero, insulation for your coop may be needed to keep your flock healthy.
Herbs: Lavender, Mint, Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary, Dandelion and even Chamomile can be beneficial additions to your chicken coop. I like to just sprinkle some around the coop on top of whatever bedding you prefer to reap the benefits.
Lavender: Is widely known for it’s calming properties, so yes it can help keep your chickens in a relaxed state. It also repels flies and mosquitos.
Mint: Also has a strong distinct sent that will deter rodents and insects.
Oregano: Natural micorbial properties that can help prevent bacterial infections. It can also boost their immune systems! (Can also be added to their feed.)
Thyme: Also has microbial benefits and can help with respiratory issues. (Can also be added to their feed.)
Rosemary: Has antifunal and antibacterial propertties and can help reduce the presence of bacteria in your coop. Also helps digestion if comsumed.
Chamomile and Dandelion can also help support digestion.
Reuse, Recycle, and Save Money: Building a Budget-Friendly Chicken Coop
You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a comfortable, functional chicken coop. With a little creativity and a focus on reusing and recycling materials, you can build or upgrade your coop on a budget.
Budget-Friendly Ideas
Pallets: Wooden pallets are a fantastic building material. They can be disassembled and repurposed for walls, floors, and even roosting bars. Many businesses give away pallets for free or at a low cost.
Old Furniture: Repurpose old wooden furniture, such as cabinets or dressers, for nesting boxes, roosting bars, or even coop walls.
Scrap Metal or Wood: Check with local construction sites or salvage yards for leftover materials. Many contractors are happy to give away scrap materials that are perfect for building or upgrading your coop.
By repurposing materials, you not only save money but also reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
A chicken coop is more than just a shelter; it’s the heart of your flock’s well-being. By focusing on ventilation, bedding, nesting boxes, predator-proofing, and insulation, you can ensure your chickens live in a safe and comfortable environment. And remember, building a budget-friendly coop doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. With a bit of creativity and a focus on reusing and recycling materials, you can create a chicken coop that works for you and your flock without breaking the bank. Happy homesteading!
Here is a low budget coop my husband and I put together with repurposed materials if you want to check it out below.
Raising chickens is one of the most rewarding steps toward self-sufficiency and sustainable living. You may have heard that they are the gate-way animal to homesteading. 😂 Not only do they provide fresh eggs and meat, but they also make delightful companions and help control pests in your yard. If you’re new to chicken keeping, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think! Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Why Raise Chickens?
First off, why should you raise chickens? Chickens are incredibly versatile animals, making them a perfect addition to any homestead, backyard or beginner. Here are some benefits:
Fresh Eggs: Home-raised eggs are tastier and more nutritious than store-bought.
Natural Pest Control: Chickens love eating insects like ticks, beetles, and flies.
Composting Helpers: Their droppings are a rich source of nitrogen for compost.
Low-Maintenance Pets: Chickens are easy to care for and can provide endless entertainment.
Choosing the Right Breeds
Selecting the right breed depends on your goals. Some chickens are better for egg production, while others are ideal for meat or dual-purpose. I always recommend doing your own research to find whats right for your life and your homestead but here are a few popular options:
Egg-Layers: Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Australorps are amazing layers.
Meat Birds: Cornish Cross and Freedom Rangers are great for meat production but these are birds you would stricly buy from a hatchery. They are bred to be larger and aren’t recommended for re-breeding as the genetics just wont turn out the same. So therfore you would be buying them from a hatchery every year. Orpingtons and Bresse’s are a good option if you want to breed yourself.
Dual-Purpose: Breeds like Orpingtons, Wyandottes, or Rhode Island Reds are good options for both eggs and meat.
Cold-Hardy Breeds: Brahmas, Black Australorp and Barred Rocks tolerate colder climates well.
Heat-Tolerant Breeds: Leghorns and Andalusians do better in warm climates.
Setting Up Your Chicken Coop
A well-designed chicken coop is essential for keeping your flock safe, healthy, and productive. Here’s what to consider:
Space Requirements: Provide at least 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run.
Ventilation: Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup and reduces the risk of respiratory issues.
Nesting Boxes: Provide one nesting box for every 3–4 hens for egg-laying.
Roosting Bars: Chickens need roosts to sleep on at night, about 8–12 inches per bird.
Predator Protection: Use sturdy materials, and ensure doors and windows are secure. Install hardware cloth instead of chicken wire for better protection against predators.
Remember, there are many options for building or purchasing a suitable coop for your birds. It can still be purposeful without being pretty. We utilized an old shed that was on our property, cut the chicken door, built roosts, and bought some laying boxes. I’ve seen people turn old campers, large dog kennels, and even make simple hoop coops to house their chickens. The possibilities are endless. So please don’t think you need $1,000 to build a coop; you just don’t.
Feeding Your Chickens
A balanced diet is crucial for healthy chickens and quality eggs. Here is a quick run down or you can check out my article here:
Chicken Feed: Start with a commercial feed formulated for the age and purpose of your chickens (starter feed for chicks, layer feed for hens, or grower feed for meat birds).
Scratch Grains: A treat for chickens, but not a primary food source.
Kitchen Scraps: Chickens love vegetable scraps, fruits, and grains, but avoid feeding them raw potatoes, avocado, chocolate, or anything moldy.
Grit and Oyster Shells: Grit aids in digestion, and oyster shells provide extra calcium for strong eggshells.
Fresh Water: Chickens need constant access to clean water.
Managing Health and Hygiene
Healthy chickens are happy chickens. Here’s how to maintain their well-being:
Clean the Coop: Regularly remove droppings and old bedding to prevent ammonia buildup.
Check for Parasites: Inspect your chickens for mites, lice, and worms. Treat as needed with appropriate solutions.
Quarantine New Birds: Keep new chickens separate for a few weeks to ensure they’re not carrying diseases.
Watch for Signs of Illness: Be alert for lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior, which could indicate health issues.
Raising Baby Chicks
Starting with baby chicks can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s what they’ll need:
Brooder Box: A safe, enclosed space with proper ventilation.
Heat Source: Use a heat lamp to maintain a temperature of 95°F in the first week, decreasing by 5°F each week until they’re fully feathered.
Chick Feed: Provide starter feed with the nutrients they need for healthy growth.
Fresh Water: Use a shallow dish to prevent chicks from drowning. Yes, this happens.
Bedding: Use pine shavings or straw, but avoid newspaper, which can cause leg problems. This would be like using no bedding as the newspaper just slips and slides everywhere, putting your babies at risk for splayed leg syndrome.
Egg Collection and Storage
Hens typically start laying eggs around 4–6 months of age depending of the breed. To ensure clean and fresh eggs:
Daily Collection: When left unattended in the nest, eggs can become dirty, cracked or even eaten(either by the chicken herself orother invaders). In some cases, hens might also conceal them. Interestingly, chickens have a unique ability to carry their eggs tucked under their wings, transporting them to a more secure location(for hatching).
Store Properly: Farm fresh eggs have what we call a ‘bloom’ on them that protects them for weeks at room temperature. However if you wash this bloom off, then the eggs must refrigerated. The eggs still last up to 3 months if stored in the fridge. I personally leave all my eggs at room temperature and rotate them into my kitchen about once a week. I will then wash if they are dirty and store them in the fridge or give away to family as I see fit.
Common Challenges
Even experienced chicken keepers face challenges. Here are a few and how to handle them:
Predators: Raccoons, hawks, and foxes are common threats. Always secure your coop and run.
Broody Hens: A broody hen essentially acts like a mother anticipating the arrival of chicks. She will lay a certain number of eggs and then stop, choosing to settle on her nest in hopes of hatching them. Interestingly, even without a rooster, meaning the eggs are not fertilized, or if you routinely gather the eggs she lays, she may still insist on sitting on her empty nest. This behavior can lead her to attempt hatching eggs that won’t ever develop or remain fixed on an empty space. To curb this broodiness, it’s important to remove her from the nest, sometimes repeatedly over several days. While she won’t be pleased and will likely express her discontent LOUDLY, this intervention is crucial. Left to her own devices, she might starve herself in her relentless pursuit to incubate those eggs.
Molting: Chickens shed old feathers and temporarily stop laying eggs during molting season. Usually this happens in fall. It’s normal and doesn’t require intervention, however you may come out one day thinking a murder happened with all the excess feathers you find.
Building a Routine
Chickens thrive on consistency. Establish a daily routine that includes:
– Feeding and watering in the morning.
– Collecting eggs daily.
– Letting them out to free-range (if possible).
– Many chicken tenders choose to put their chickens to bed and close their coop doors at night to keep them safe from predators. I don’t lock mine up in their coop, but I do ensure they are safe in their run, especially during the summer when daylight hours are long and they are most likely up past my bedtime.
Enjoy the Process
Raising chickens is about more than just eggs and meat—it’s about building a connection to your food and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Chickens have unique personalities and are fun to watch as they scratch, peck, and interact. Take the time to enjoy the process and celebrate the small victories.
Final Thoughts
Raising chickens is a rewarding journey that offers both practical benefits and joyful moments. By starting with the right preparation and knowledge, you’ll set yourself up for success. Whether you’re looking to gather fresh eggs every morning or simply enjoy the companionship of these feathery friends, chickens are a wonderful addition to any homestead or backyard.
What questions do you have about raising chickens? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Raising chickens is not just about providing a safe environment and clean shelter; their diet plays a significant role in their overall health, productivity, and the quality of eggs and meat they produce. Whether you’re raising chickens for eggs, meat, or both, understanding what to feed your flock is essential for ensuring they thrive. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of a balanced diet, provide tips on feeding your chickens for optimal health, and highlight some nutritious herbs that can benefit your flock.
The Basics of a Balanced Chicken Diet
A healthy, balanced diet is the foundation of a thriving chicken flock. The right nutrition will ensure that your chickens are healthy, produce high-quality eggs, and grow into strong, healthy meat birds
Key Components of a Chicken’s Diet
Layer Feed (For Egg-Laying Hens): The primary food for egg-laying hens is a specially formulated layer feed. This feed is designed to provide the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. A typical layer feed contains around 16-18% protein, which supports healthy growth and egg production. The added calcium in layer feed is vital for strong eggshells.
Starter Feed (For Chicks): Chicks require a higher protein content to support their rapid growth. Starter feed is formulated with 18-20% protein and includes all the nutrients necessary for healthy development. Once chicks are a few weeks old, you can switch to a grower feed.
Grower Feed (For Meat Birds): If you’re raising chickens for meat, grower feed is the best choice. This feed is typically lower in calcium but provides higher levels of protein (around 18-20%) to support muscle development. It’s formulated to ensure healthy growth and optimal meat production.
Grain and Scratch: Grains such as corn, wheat, oats, and barley can be offered to chickens in moderation. While they are not complete feeds, they provide energy and variety. Scratch is usually offered as a treat but should be limited to prevent imbalanced nutrition.
Greens and Vegetables: Fresh greens, such as lettuce, kale, spinach, and herbs, are excellent additions to your chickens’ diet. These provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Chickens love pecking at fresh vegetables, and offering a variety can help keep them engaged.
Clean Water: Water is just as important as food in a chicken’s diet. Ensure your flock has constant access to clean, fresh water, as dehydration can lead to poor health, reduced egg production, and weight loss.
Incorporating Healthy Herbs Into Your Chicken’s Diet
Herbs can not only spice up your chickens’ diet but also provide numerous health benefits. Many herbs are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting your chickens’ immune systems and overall well-being. Here are a few herbs to consider:
Parsley: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folic acid, parsley is excellent for supporting bone health and overall immune function. It can also help with digestion.
Oregano: Known for its antibacterial properties, oregano is a great herb for supporting respiratory health. It can help fight off infections and boost the immune system.
Thyme: Thyme is another herb with powerful antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It can promote respiratory health and aid in digestion.
Mint: Fresh mint is known for its digestive benefits, helping with bloating and upset stomachs. It also has a refreshing scent that can help deter pests in the coop.
Dandelion: Dandelion is full of vitamins A, C, and K and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can aid digestion and promote overall vitality.
Basil: Basil contains essential oils that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s great for promoting healthy digestion and boosting the immune system.
Garlic: While not technically an herb, garlic is a natural antibiotic and can help fight off infections. It also helps boost immunity and can deter internal parasites. However, garlic should be used in moderation.
How to Feed Herbs to Your Chickens
You can offer fresh or dried herbs to your chickens. Simply hang bundles of herbs in the coop or scatter them in their outdoor run. Chickens will naturally peck at the herbs, gaining the benefits as they eat. You can also mix chopped herbs into their regular feed or sprinkle them on top of greens or vegetables.
Providing Treats and Supplementing Their Diet
While a balanced base feed should make up the majority of your chickens’ diet, occasional treats can offer enrichment and variety. However, treats should never exceed more than 10% of their total diet to avoid nutritional imbalances.
Healthy Chicken Treats
Fruits and Berries: Chickens enjoy fruits like berries, apples, and bananas. These are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, make sure to remove any seeds or pits, as they may be harmful.
Vegetables: Chickens love leafy greens, carrots, cucumbers, and squash. These vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients.
Mealworms and Grubs: These high-protein treats are ideal for chickens that need extra protein, especially during molting season.
Sunflower Seeds: A healthy snack that is high in fats and protein, sunflower seeds can be offered in moderation.
Supplements
To ensure your chickens are getting all the nutrients they need, you may need to supplement their diet occasionally
Calcium Supplements: For laying hens, you can provide crushed oyster shell or limestone to ensure they get the necessary calcium for strong eggshells.
Grit: Chickens need grit to help them digest food properly. Grit aids in grinding down food in their gizzards, especially if they eat grains and seeds. You can offer commercial grit or even small stones from your yard.
Signs of an Imbalanced Diet
While chickens generally have hearty appetites, you should be aware of the signs of an unbalanced diet, which can affect their health and productivity.
Decreased Egg Production: If your hens suddenly stop laying or produce soft-shelled eggs, it may indicate a lack of calcium or an imbalance in their diet.
Pale Comb and Wattles: If a chicken’s comb or wattles appear pale, it could signal nutritional deficiencies, anemia, or illness.
Lethargy or Weight Loss: If chickens become weak, lethargic, or lose weight despite eating regularly, they may be lacking essential nutrients.
Feather Loss or Poor Plumage: Feather loss, or the development of dull, brittle feathers, can indicate inadequate protein or vitamins.
Conclusion: The Key to Healthy Chickens and Quality Eggs and Meat
Feeding your chickens the right diet is crucial for their health, egg production, and meat quality. By providing a balanced diet that includes layer or grower feed, plenty of fresh water, and healthy herbs, you can ensure that your flock thrives. Including a variety of fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats can also support their overall well-being and keep them happy and engaged. Keep an eye on your chickens’ condition, and always look for signs of dietary imbalance. A well-fed flock will reward you with vibrant health, high-quality eggs, and delicious meat.
