[we_mustnt_panic]

Hello all, I am thinking of keeping a small flock (say 4-5) egg layers and looking for some advice. I used to have chickens when I was small but don't remember too much about it other than being scared of the cockerel with the gammy leg we called geronimo!  One thing I'm worried about is fencing?  Our house is isolated with no neighbours and large garden with fields around.  Other than foxes what should I worry about?  Will my ladies wander off and not come back?!  Thanks all advice appreciated

[Vember]

Hi WMP

Welcome to the forums

Great news that your thinking of chickens
I am in a very similar position to you regarding the no neighbours & fields bit, and in  my opinion you need a fence up.
Some people use electric fencing which works real well, I have used Twillweld wire netting.
Chicken wire is not up to the job.

They will get used to their area and stay within in it but in my opinion you need to protect from Mr Fox

Have a read through here there's loads of good info regarding first getting hens http://www.chat.allotment-garden.org/viewtopic.php?t=1688 & http://www.chat.allotment-garden.org/viewtopic.php?t=19629

[richyrich7]

Hi and welcome to the forums    WMP

Hows the research going into  keeping chooks ?

Your place sounds lovely.