Chicken Math

[thecreekhouse]

I have 4 chickens: a Silkie, a big Cochin, an Olive Egger and an Ameracauna. None are laying yet (they’re all between 6-10 months old) but I’m not really in it so much for the eggs but because I enjoy the chickens. I keep being tempted to add more chickens to my backyard flock but really, 4 is a good number for the space that I have. No crowding at all. Does anyone else find themselves tempted to grow their flock when the number of chickens they already have is sufficient?

 

[RUNuts]

6-10 months - I'm surprised they aren't laying, have you looked for hidden nests?

Yes, they are a joy and wonder. I'd love a bigger flock with rooster. Alas, space constrains me too. Down to 13. 6 Leghorns, 6 Easter Eggers and 1 Australorp/Barnyard mix who is approaching 6 months old and has laid a perfect, small brown egg every day for the last week. If she lays today, this will be 8 in a row.

 

[chickens really]

Definitely I believe everyone get the itch.
If you like the dynamics of your flock don't add anymore this year.

 

[SueT]

Your pullets may wait till spring to lay when the days get longer.
If you've maxed out your coop space, it's not a good idea getting more chickens. The current members of the flock will not be happy about newcomers, and you'd have all kinds of tribulations.

 

[Ducksandchickens]

I’d love a bigger flock! But no my silly RIR is a jerk face and hates all living things except for her roommate. We’ve tried getting more chickens but they just get bullied!

 

[chickens really]

I’d love a bigger flock! But no my silly RIR is a jerk face and hates all living things except for her roommate. We’ve tried getting more chickens but they just get bullied!

RIR can be aggressive so I understand.

 

[Ducksandchickens]

RIR can be aggressive so I understand.

I do too it’s just frustrating

 

[chickens really]

I do too it’s just frustrating

I had RIR and got rid of them all..

 

[Ridgerunner]

Of course a lot of people have that urge, some have self-control, some don't. The way I look at it is how many chickens do I need to meet my goals, then how can I meet those chickens' needs. I do not look at it as I have this much space, how many chickens can I shoehorn in there. That philosophy often leads to trouble. How much room they have is an important component to behavior but so is individual personality. Even if you have plenty of room, adding just one chicken with an aggressive personality can ruin the flock's dynamics.

If you are happy with your current flock and they are doing well, why take a chance on ruining a good thing? If you need more to meet your goals, that is different.

 

[Ducksandchickens]

I had RIR and got rid of them all..

I wish I could but... even though I complain, she’s kinda grown on me and I still love her even though she’s a jerk plus my barred rock would be really sad without her