When I brought home my first tiny flock of backyard hens, I thought I had it all figured out. But like most things in homesteading, chicken keeping comes with a few surprises — some messy, some hilarious, and some that made me a better (and more patient) person.
Whether you’re just dreaming of your first coop or you’ve already picked out names, here are 5 things I wish I’d known before I started raising backyard chickens.
- They’re More Work Than You Think — But Worth It
Chickens are often marketed as “easy” livestock. And they are… mostly. But no one tells you about:
Early morning feedings in the rain
Cleaning out bedding regularly
Predators that show up out of nowhere
Still, collecting fresh eggs from your own backyard is incredibly rewarding. Just be ready for daily commitment, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes.
👉 Affiliate plug: Automatic Coop Door Opener — totally worth the peace of mind!
- You’ll Need a Coop That’s Bigger Than You Think
Most guides say 2–3 square feet per bird — and technically that’s true. But give them more room when possible. Happy hens lay better and fight less.
Also, don’t forget ventilation, predator-proofing, and access to shade.
👉 Affiliate plug: Best-Selling Chicken Coop Kit on Amazon
- Chicken Personalities Are Real
Some are sweet. Some are tiny, feathered gremlins. You’ll have a bossy hen, a shy one, and one that somehow ends up on your porch every morning like she owns the place.
They’ll follow you around, try to jump in your lap, and eat from your hand. It’s weirdly heartwarming.
- You Don’t Need a Rooster (And You Might Not Want One)
Fun fact: hens lay eggs without a rooster. The only difference is the eggs won’t be fertilized.
Roosters can be beautiful and protective… or aggressive and loud.
If you’re in a suburban or quiet area, stick with hens only — your neighbors will thank you.
👉 Affiliate plug: Quiet Backyard Chicken Breeds – Illustrated Guide
- They’ll Eat More Than You Expect — and Poop More Too
Your hens will go through feed faster than you think. Add in treats, fresh greens, oyster shell, grit… and you’ve got a budget to plan.
Also: they poop a lot. But it’s gold for your compost pile.
👉 Affiliate plug: Compost Bin for Backyard Waste
🧡 Final Thoughts
Backyard chicken keeping is one of the most rewarding things I’ve added to my homemaking routine. It connects you to your food, your land, and even your kids or neighbors.
Start small. Stay curious. Laugh a lot. And prepare for way more poop than you expected.
Got questions about raising your first flock? Drop them in the comments — I’d love to help you get started.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Thyme At Home!
Thyme At Home 
Leave a comment