"Chicken" book recommendations anyone?

[Curlykale]

I have always wanted to keep chickens but my hubbie has always been against it. After several months of badgering from my daughter and myself (and after holidaying on a farm where we ate fresh eggs for breakfast every day) he has at last given in and says we can get some.

I have absolutely no experience in keeping chickens though, and want to find out as much as possible before we go ahead, to make sure that we will be able to look after them properly.

Can anyone recommend a good book for beginners, setting out exactly what is involved?

Thanks in advance

[Glutton4...]

Many people recommend a book by Kate Thear, which I haven't read, so can't comment. Another is 'Avoid the Vet' from Practical Poultry, whch I have, but haven't yet read in detail. I usually recommend The Haynes Chicken Manual! I'd had Chickens for a couple of years before I got this book, but learned lots from it. It's well laid out and easy to read.

Good luck, and keep us informed, with pictures, when you get them, coz we're nosey!

[RichmondHens]

There is definitely a thread about this on here somewhere - do a search.

[Glutton4...]

Here ya go:

http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...searchid=66520

Make a Cuppa first - you'll be there all day!

SORRY!!!! I did an ADVANCED search, and just typed in CHICKEN BOOK - try that.

[jessmorris]

Hmm, how do you get that link to work G4, or do I just use the number?

[Curlykale]

Thanks G4, but I can't get the link to work either. Do you know what the title of the thread was, so I can do a search on the name?

[jojo2910]

Haynes Manual is very good. We also have a book from a pound shop, something like 'Keeping Chickens in an Urban Setting', which might help eliviate any fears he has. I can find out the proper name if you wish.

[baldrick]

Haynes Manual is very good. We also have a book from a pound shop, something like 'Keeping Chickens in an Urban Setting', which might help eliviate any fears he has. I can find out the proper name if you wish.

I think its called the urban hen. TBH I bought books and they are great but I have learned more from stalking forums!!! Read the sticky things on here specifically about housing and red mite and scan the problems people ask about over a couple of weeks and the answers you get. You will find some people are expert at the fully free range farm type chicken keeping while others are more specialist with the problems which cause more of an issue in an urban setting such as keeping the ground sweet, human predators, noise problems and vermin. In my opinion while the basics like feeding, pests, illness etc are the same your priorities will be different depending on your setting. This stuff just isnt covered in books. All I would say is whatever run you get with a ready built house it will never be big enough. I have a house which needs at least 5 large fowl to keep it warm and cozy in winter but the attached run is big enough for 3 bantams if they get on! It is going to the allotment in a new run! I would say save your money, make one of the simple houses on here or buy a plain one with a poo tray and make your own run to fit what you want in your space. x

[Glutton4...]

Bummocks - Didn't check it after posting. Will have anther go;

OK, Go to 'Advanced search' Top right in the dark green band,
I just clicked on the 'Posts' box, but there are others,
Then I typed 'Chicken Book' in the box...

Good luck!