Your first backyard flock: a friendly starter guide

Thinking about hens? Here's the short version of what new chicken keepers wish they'd known.

1. Check the rules first

Look up your town's hen limit, rooster rule, and setbacks before you buy chicks. Find your NH town.

2. Chicks or grown hens?

Day-old chicks are adorable and friendly but need a heated brooder for several weeks and won't lay for months. Started pullets cost more but are closer to laying.

3. Hens are social

Chickens are flock animals. Plan on at least three so no one is lonely, and stay within your town's limit.

4. Plan for predators

Foxes, raccoons, hawks, and neighborhood dogs all love chicken. A sturdy coop with hardware cloth (not chicken wire) and a door you close every night is a must.

5. Wash your hands

Backyard poultry can carry Salmonella even when they look healthy. The CDC recommends washing hands after touching birds, eggs, or anything in their area, and not kissing or snuggling birds.