Is a flock of 2 chickens too small?

[momto5kiddos]

I'm new here, and new to raising chickens (I don't have any yet.) In my area I can legally have 2 chickens. I'm glad that at least it's legal here, but disappointed at the pitifully small number allowed. Our yard is right near --and visible from--a busy street so I think it would be difficult to hide more. I was wondering if anyone else has had experience with such a small "flock"--if you can even call it that! Is it even doable? Specifically I'm wanting to know:

1. Can 2 chickens give each other enough companionship or would they be lonely? Would they be able to keep each other warm in the winter? Temperatures here sometimes get below zero.

2. If one died would the other one accept another companion, if I could even find one?

3. Is it a lot of work to care for just two chickens for what you get in return? We wouldn't be doing it just for eggs, but also fertilizer and as a learning experience and fun for the kids and us.

I would love to know what anyone has to say about small flocks. Thanks!

 

[Year of the Rooster]

Really the minimum would should be 3 at the least. Is it possible to have just 1 more?

 

[ravencreek]

Is it 2 chickens per family or per adult in the household? 2 chickens will be fine and if your worried about warmth for winter just give them a red bulb heat lamp or even a ceramic reptile heater. And just keep them dry. Ta Da! Happy chickens!

 

[CoopCrazy]

I think as long as they had all there other neccesities then they would be fine.. I agree with the heat lamp if you know it will be getting cold at night. Otherwise I say go for it Two chickens are better then NO chickens. Enjoy I have a feeling they will be a lil spoiled

 

[Jennie5193]

I think it is a good possibility that it could work for you. Make sure you choose a cold-hardy breed and use a heat lamp when it gets really cold and they should be fine.

I think two is fine as far as companionship. I have to keep two of mine separated from the rest of the flock and they are just as happy. Another thing that you may not realize is that you'll actually be a part of the "flock" and they will have you and your children for companionship.

If you were to need a companion if you lost one, it wouldn't be that hard to introduce another hen. You would need to go through a process, but it is possible to do.

As far as worth it? That's just your opinion. I think it is very worth it, especially for the kids. I use them to teach my children about how to treat animals, care for them, and respect them for the food they provide us. Not to mention the fact that it is just *FUN*!

Good luck! If you decide to get them, it'll be such a great experience for your family.

 

[momto5kiddos]

It's 2 chickens per household. If animal control finds more, they will make me get rid of the extras.

 

[orcasislandchickens]

A hen should have a freind, so a flock of two would be fine. I think in that situation I would have a hatchery ship 2 point of lay sexlink pullets. You will get eggs right away, and they are sweet freindly birds.

 

[Rhett&SarahsMom]

Quote:
Not one of my 5 are legal.

Not that I am advocating breaking the law.


shhhh. I also have two in the brooder currently and two banties on their way. Chickens are a very addictive hobbie

 

[mrsgibber]

Quote:
That's a stupid law!

 

[first time farmer]

I only wanted 2 also. I had 2 for about 2 weeks when i got 3 more. I have 8 more coming in a few days so I will have a total of 12 so as you can see chickens are addicting. lol My best advice is what every one else said and plan for more (if you have room)