New Owner's Checklist
The Nestled Coop Owner’s Checklist
1. The Living Space (The Nest)
Secure Coop Protection — Build your coop using hardware cloth rather than chicken wire and install a reliable locking door to keep your flock safe from predators.
Optimized Nesting Boxes — Provide one nesting box for every 3–4 hens; for high-production breeds like the White Leghorn, privacy is essential for consistent laying.
Roosting Bar Comfort — Install roosting bars that are at least 2 inches wide to allow your birds to sleep comfortably off the ground.
Strategic Ventilation — Ensure air flows through the top of the coop to prevent moisture buildup without creating a direct, cold draft on the birds.
2. Nutrition & Hydration
Feed Transition Strategy — Start your chicks on a "Starter/Grower" crumble and switch them to a high-quality "Layer Feed" once they reach 18–20 weeks of age.
Essential Calcium Boost — High-frequency layers, such as the White Leghorn, require supplemental crushed oyster shells to maintain strong eggshells.
Constant Fresh Water — Clean water must be available 24/7; during the winter months, use a heated poultry waterer to prevent freezing.
3. Breed-Specific Selection
The Companion Bird: Barred Plymouth Rock — This docile and exceptionally cold-hardy breed is the perfect choice for owners seeking a friendly, pet-like experience.
The Efficiency Expert: White Leghorn — As the industry standard for high egg production with low feed costs, this breed is ideal for maximum efficiency.
The Reliable Workhorse: Rhode Island Red — This hardy, dual-purpose bird is the best overall choice for beginners looking for a dependable backyard flock.
4. Health & Maintenance
Natural Dust Bathing — Provide a dedicated area filled with dry dirt and wood ash to help your chickens naturally prevent mites and lice.
The Daily Welfare Check — Spend a few moments each day looking for bright eyes, smooth feathers, and active behavior to ensure your birds are thriving.
Weekly Coop Sanitation — Remove all soiled bedding once a week to prevent ammonia smells and keep your birds free from respiratory issues.