The Most Common Mistakes First-Time Chicken Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Top Mistakes to Avoid for First-Time Chicken Owners: A Beginner's Guide

Backyard chickens are a blast—fresh eggs, funny personalities, and just something peaceful about watching them scratch around in the yard. But if you're new to chickens, there are a few common mistakes we see all the time (and hey, we made some of them too). Here are some things to watch out for so your first flock experience is fun, not frustrating:

1. Underestimating Space Needs

Too many folks build or buy a coop that’s just too small. Crowded chickens get stressed, pick on each other, and can develop health issues. We recommend 8 square feet per bird in the run if they’ll be confined. Free-ranging your flock during the day? You can often go a little smaller on the run, but still plan for plenty of coop space for sleeping and laying. Our standard 6x13 coop comfortably fits 8 birds, and if they free range, you can go up to around 16 chickens. More space always makes for happier hens.

2. Overthinking the Cleaning Process

We get it. You want to keep the coop clean and your birds healthy. But new owners often overdo it—cleaning too frequently or using the wrong method. Our solution? The deep litter method. We use hemp bedding and let nature do the work. We only clean our coop once every year and a half, and it doesn’t stink at all. Less work, no odor, and bonus: compost-ready material for your garden.

3. Not Predator-Proofing the Coop

You wouldn’t believe how many predators want to get in. Raccoons, coyotes, snakes, hawks, neighborhood dogs—you name it. Don’t wait until you have a problem. We recommend buried hardware cloth to prevent digging, secure latches on every door and window, and black PVC-coated wire for visibility and strength. We even offer a predator screen add-on with buried protection, and it’s 100% worth it.

4. Thinking Too Small

It’s called chicken math for a reason. You think you’ll stop at 4 birds... then you have 10. We see it all the time. If there’s even a chance you might grow your flock, build for it now. It’ll save you money, time, and a lot of hassle down the road.

5. Choosing Chickens Without Research

Not every chicken is created equal. Some are calm and friendly, others are more high-strung. Some lay lots of eggs, while others are just for looks. Before you buy, do a little research on breed temperament, laying habits, and climate suitability. Or just reach out—we’re always happy to help you choose.

Ready to Set Yourself Up for Success?

We’ve built coops for first-timers, hobby farmers, and seasoned chicken lovers alike. We know what works and what doesn’t, and we design every coop with real life in mind. If you want to avoid the beginner pitfalls and make your chicken journey a smooth one, let’s talk. We’ll help you get started with a setup that’s easy, smart, and built to last.