Chickens! The new 'it' chicks on the block.

Hi all, i'm trying to get as much information up as possible at the moment and have been working on some care sheets for various pets. First of i wanted to cover what i think will be the next 'big craze' in pet ownership. 

Chickens seem to be growing in popularity as pets. Lots of people have started to keep them in gardens in store bought coops and use their eggs for their own household or to give to their family and friends. I personally think its an excellent idea for families, not only are they social creatures they are also great for your garden. (well their poo is) Children seem to enjoy watching them and i think it makes a nice alternative to a rabbit which isn't always ideal for a child. Like all childrens pets ultimately its the parents responsibility to make sure they are well cared for but in terms of keeping a childs interest i think you could be onto a winner!

There are various breeds like any other pet so reading up on the ideal breed for you needs to be priority, the bantams are friendly and small which are ideal for the smaller gardens and coops. They are inquisitive and shouldn't destroy your lawn if kept in sensible numbers. They also have the prettiest breeds i think and are easier to handle for first time owners. Having worked with bantams i can honestly say they become very tame and will eat out of your hand and follow you around the garden waiting for food.

General care i would recommend a good quality pellet,daily vegetables and plenty of fresh water. They enjoy meal worms that you can find in the wild bird section and enjoy porridge on a cold morning. The draw backs are that they can attract mice so make sure your coop is secure and off the ground. If you have an attached run i would suggest putting your coop on paving slabs to avoid them destroying the grass. They are quite low maintenance and do sunbathe and are highly social so never keep one on its own. I would recommend a group of hens 3-6 would be ideal for the average garden.

 Please Check out the feathers and beaky company which are based in the UK and all their products are amazing! They have great quality drinkers and feeders that are really well made. They are also ideal for ducks and other poultry.

If  you want a chicken for a pet and think of them as an interesting animal as appose to livestock you keep for eggs and meat i would suggest like any pet you do your research! There are magazines out there, pet shops and lots of online sources all with lots of helpful guides and care sheets. 

Heres a picture of Ginger the old farm hen. Ohh and she did keep escaping her chicken run :P