[colinjmx5]

my new allotment allows poultry

What is best plan for hen's, never done this before

Thanks

Colin and Thembi

[joyfull]

the same as keeping them at home.
1) make sure the run is big enough (at least 2 square metres per hen of clear run space,
2) a good house with no roofing felt - in an ideal world use onduline or coroline.
3) make it fox and rat proof.
4) Collect the eggs daily.
5) Have several feeders and drinkers and stow these away at night (unless you have a treddle feeder)
6) Make sure you can get to them every day to check they are ok and to collect their eggs.
7) Buy your hens from a reputable source.
Do not get a cockerel as these are not allowed on allotments.
9) Find a good local vet who will treat chickens as not all will - do this sooner rather than later when it could be too late. Often when you see a chicken is ill it is too late as they hide illnesses very well.
10) Read lots before embarking on this venture .