[AliandSusi]

We have just joined - but our chickens don't actually arrive till next week. How keen is that! Already, we are fretting about the amount of space our new ark provides. It said that it would take 5 to 6 hens but it looks a bit cramped upstairs. Any hints/advice/forehead stroking appreciated.

[garden cottage]

hi ali and susi, it will depend on a few factors, size of your hens, will they be allowed to roam the garden during the day and then shut into run/house at night? if their to be kept in a run house combination it will need to be moved regularly so the ground isnt destroyed. they will only use upstairs for roosting at night presume youve got seperate laying box. when roosting they sit close to each other like little soldiers, dont go over what is recommended for your size house. best of luck...............neil

[MrRee]

Welcome!

  It's good to worry,shows you have your animals' best interests at heart. Get as much advice from the person you are getting your chickens from,keep a constant supply of fresh water,food,clean bedding and the odd treat. Keep them locked up for a day or two when you first get them,they'll know where their new roost is then and put themselves to bed at dusk for you. Regular checks for mites and dirty bottoms and it should all go swimmingly. A week after you've had your chickens you'll wonder what all the fuss was about. Don't be shy to ask any question on here though,there are some fantastic,like-minded characters with a wealth of knowledge ready to help out.
  Ok,so you're getting your chickens soon....... what animals next?     ......... Ree

[pigsatlesrues]

Welcome from me too.  Check out the poultry section - I am sure you find the answers to all of your questions and worries there.

Kate 

[AliandSusi]

Excellent advice - very comprgensive! Good luck with your new ventures.

[Rosemary]

Hi both and welcome to teh TAS forums.

A large hen needs about 9" perch space; you need a nest box for every four or so hens. We've got two houses for the layers - they can choose which one to roost in. Each would probably do 12 hens. There are two or three using one house and about 16 all crammed into the other house - their choice!

[doganjo]

What can I use as nesting boxes?  My light sussex (4, going on 3 - I think there is a 'himself' there ) have a large compost tray filled with lovely sweet smelling hay but they just snuggle down in it at night, they don't roost on the rail above it.  Ex batts are known to lay just anywhere to begin with so at the moment they just have a mound of hay in a corner of their shed - eggs ARE usually there, too, so maybe I've trained them .

[carole]

Hello from me too

Carole

[kaz]

Hi from me too.

My hens have their own house and nest boxes but eggs are laid in the goats hay rack, on the straw on the hay at low and the very high levels, but they are free range even coming in the kitchen if they get the chance.