Spring into hen keeping

Lisa Mancell, National Coordinator from Farmgate Feeds, gives her advice on how to get started with hens

- Lisa Mancell

As we finally reach spring, is this the year that you make your hen keeping dream a reality? If you have always imagined yourself with a little flock in your back garden but have been scared to take the leap, then here are some top tips to get you started.

Like caring for any animal, hen keeping is a commitment, but you can make it far easier by doing your research beforehand. Then you can focus on the 'hen zen' experience that comes with collecting eggs for your brekkie once your flock have settled.

CHOOSING YOUR FEATHERED FRIENDS

Before you set out to buy your hens, make sure you decide the best breed for you. Consider your priorities, whether it's the look of the hen (for showing potential), the size, laying reliability or temperament then a hen breeder will be able to advise you.

In peak laying periods, hens will produce anything from four to five eggs a week up to seven for a top performer! You can quickly have a surplus of eggs if your flock size is too large for the number of eggs you require.

FLOCK SIZE AND SPACE