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
This story is from the Spring 2023 edition of The Country Smallholder.
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This story is from the Spring 2023 edition of The Country Smallholder.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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How to Buy a Smallholding in France- Long-time smallholder Lorraine Turnbull looks at the practicalities of moving to rural France
Aspiring smallholders are continually thwarted by the prices of smallholdings and property with land located within the UK. Even the humblest croft in Scotland comes with a substantial price tag and conditions which would make even an adventurous wannabee consider carefully. But all is not lost. For those willing to take the adventure of a lifetime, there is always Europe, and one of the most popular places is France.
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