Keeping backyard chickens is growing in popularity, and new keepers need guidance on meeting the welfare needs of chickens kept for eggs or as companion animals.
Backyard chickens deserve the same welfare consideration as any companion animal, yet many keepers acquire chickens without adequate preparation. Chickens have complex social and behavioral needs including roosting, dust bathing, foraging, and social interaction that must be accommodated. Predator protection is critical — a poorly secured coop can lead to devastating attacks. New keepers should also plan for veterinary care, aging hens that stop laying, and what to do with excess roosters from hatchery orders.