[groves]

Hello

Really new to keeping chickens had them since saturday anyone have any handy tips and  advice to assure my son( whos 7) has a happy life with his chickens. Read books watched youtube videos on clipping wings(which i managed today )do they need a time to adjust to surroundings

thanks kirstie

[ManicMum]

How about getting your son signed up to this forum?  He can then help you by finding information (and practise computer skills and reading etc at the same time!)

[kegs]

Our son is in charge of letting them out every morning and locking them up at night (under supervision!).  We've also made him chief photographer for those important photo opportunities! 

[joyfull]

The following are for you to do or your son with help:-
Make sure you find a poultry friendly vet - before you need one.
Worm them with flubenvet every 3-4 months.
Keep their coop free from red mite so regular treatment when you are cleaning them out.
Keep the birds free from lice - use something like kitten frontline or the spray version.
Close them up if your son has gone to bed and put the feeders away out of the reach of rats.

For your son:-
Let them out early.
Make sure they have layers pellets available all day.
Make sure their water is kept clean and topped up.
Wash the feeder and drinker regularly and never allow the feed to get wet - this leads to it going sour and mouldy.
Feed them mixed corn, meal worms (either live or dried), sunflower hearts, the odd grape, sweetcorn kernels (if tinned then rinse thoroughly so no trace of salt is left) as a treat in the evening. Treats are the best way to get your birds tame and used to being held and checked over.
Always wash your hands before and after handling the hens (this also applies to you).
Take lots of photos and tell us all about your hens