Raising Backyard Chickens in Hanford, CA

Essential Tips for Beginners

Raising backyard chickens has become an increasingly popular activity among residents of Hanford, California. With the city council’s unanimous vote on May 19, 2020, to legalize the raising of chickens within city limits, Hanford locals have embraced the opportunity to keep these birds as part of their household. This move, spurred by citizen requests, aligns Hanford with neighboring Lemoore and sets the stage for a community-orientated approach to sustainable living and local food production.

Keeping backyard chickens offers a variety of benefits, from fresh eggs to natural pest control and the joys of animal husbandry. However, potential poultry keepers in Hanford should familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and regulations that govern the practice to ensure that they are compliant with local ordinances. Contacting the Hanford Planning Division is a crucial first step for residents to obtain guidance on permissible practices, coop specifications, and any limitations on the number of chickens allowed.

Enthusiasts looking to embark on this journey will find a wealth of resources and a supportive community around raising backyard chickens. From selecting the appropriate chicken feed that caters to the birds’ nutritional needs at different life stages to understanding the importance of allowing them to range or roam, Hanford citizens are well-equipped to start their own backyard flocks responsibly. With the local laws in mind and the city’s support, they can enjoy the many rewards that come with raising chickens in their backyards.

Understanding Local Regulations in Hanford

When considering raising backyard chickens in Hanford, residents must navigate local zoning regulations and specific laws related to poultry management.

Zoning and Permits

Hanford City Council has approved ordinances allowing residents to raise chickens within city limits. However, permits may be required depending on the zoning of one's property. Residential zones designated as R-L-5, R-L-8, and R-L-12 are considered low-density and are typically permitted for raising chickens.

• Permit contact: Planning Division at (559) 585-2581

• Zones allowing backyard chickens: R-L-5, R-L-8, R-L-12

Specific Laws for Backyard Flocks

Hanford's local laws specify certain requirements for maintaining backyard flocks. Chickens must be kept in coops and are not allowed to roam freely to minimize potential nuisances. Although the keeping of chickens is legalized, the city upholds a strict code against beekeeping.

• Coop requirements: Mandatory for chicken containment

• Restrictions: No free-roaming chickens; no beekeeping within city limits

Choosing the Right Chicken Breed

When raising backyard chickens in Hanford, CA, it is vital to select breeds that thrive in its climate and meet the specific needs for egg production, meat, or both. Understanding the characteristics of different breeds ensures a successful and rewarding experience.

Climate Considerations

Hanford, CA, experiences a warm, semi-arid climate throughout much of the year, with hot summers and mild winters. Therefore, the chosen chicken breeds must be:

• Heat-tolerant: able to withstand high temperatures without overheating

• Cold-resistant to a degree: while not as crucial, breeds should manage cooler temperatures during mild winters

Ideal Breeds for Hanford's Climate Leghorn Andalusian Sussex Rhode Island Red

Egg Laying vs. Meat Breeds

Egg-laying breeds are prized for their prolific egg production, often yielding a substantial number of eggs annually.

• Egg Layers: Lohmann Browns, renowned for laying over 300 eggs a year, are a shining example of high-production breeds.

Meat breeds are fast-growing chickens, bred for the quality and quantity of their meat.

• Meat Breeds: While less commonly raised in backyard settings, breeds like the Cornish Cross excel for meat production.

Dual-Purpose Breeds

Dual-purpose breeds offer the best of both worlds, providing a reasonable amount of eggs while also being suitable for meat. They typically have a heavier build than egg-laying breeds.

• Dual-Purpose Qualities: hardy, adaptable, good foragers

• Examples:

  • Rhode Island Red: Good layers of brown eggs, resilient, adaptable to various climates

  • Sussex: Offers both plentiful eggs and a good meat yield, with a thick plumage for climate resilience

In conclusion, the successful raising of backyard chickens in Hanford depends greatly on choosing the right breed based on its climate adaptability and intended use. Whether seeking eggs, meat, or both, there are several suitable breeds that can flourish in this environment.

Designing Your Chicken Coop

When constructing a chicken coop in Hanford, CA, the main considerations revolve around ensuring adequate space, robust security features, proper ventilation, and the arrangement of nesting boxes with suitable bedding to promote a healthy environment for the chickens.

Space Requirements

The square footage inside a chicken coop must allow for about 3-4 square feet per chicken to ensure they have enough room to move, rest, and feed without stress. For the outside run, a minimum of 10 square feet per chicken is optimal, granting them sufficient space to exhibit natural behaviors such as scratching, pecking, and roaming.

• Indoor space: 3-4 sq ft per chicken

• Outdoor run: At least 10 sq ft per chicken

Security Features

Security is paramount to protect chickens from predators and extreme weather. The coop must be built with sturdy materials and secured with predator-proof latches. The inclusion of hardware cloth instead of chicken wire is advisable, as it provides better defense against predators such as raccoons and hawks.

• Materials: Solid lumber, hardware cloth, heavy-duty latches

• Defense: Buried wire apron, covered run, secure locking mechanisms

Coop Ventilation

Ventilation is critical in maintaining a dry and disease-free coop. Windows or vents should be placed high, typically near the roof, to allow for air circulation while avoiding drafts on the roosting birds. The climate in Hanford may require adjustable ventilation to accommodate seasonal temperature fluctuations.

• Placement: High windows or vents

• Adjustability: Vents operable according to temperature changes

Nesting Boxes and Bedding

Nesting boxes should be easily accessible, private, and comfortable for laying hens. One box for every three to four hens is suitable, lined with soft bedding such as pine shavings to provide cushioning for eggs and absorb moisture. Regular checks and cleanings ensure hygiene and prevent the proliferation of parasites.

• Density: 1 box per 3-4 hens

• Bedding: Pine shavings or similar absorbent materials

Feeding Your Chickens

Feeding backyard chickens the right diet is crucial for their health and egg production. This section breaks down the types of feed available, appropriate supplements and treats, and provides tips for using feeders effectively.

Types of Chicken Feed

Starter Feed: Chicks up to 8 weeks old should be given starter feed with 18-20% protein to support rapid growth.

Grower Feed: From 8 to 14 weeks, chickens benefit from starter/grower feed containing 16-18% protein, which ensures continued development without the excessive protein of starter feed.

Layer Feed: Once chickens reach laying age, around 18 weeks, they should transition to layer feed with 16% protein and increased calcium, which supports shell formation.

Supplements and Treats

• Grit: Chickens require grit to help digest their food properly, as they don't have teeth to chew. Grit should be available for chickens to consume as needed.

• Oyster Shells: A source of calcium, oyster shells are vital for laying hens and should be offered separately to ensure they get enough to produce strong eggshells.

• Mealworms: High in protein, mealworms are an excellent treat but should be given sparingly to maintain a balanced diet.

Feeder Tips and Tricks

Feeder Types:

• Hanging Feeders: Reduce waste and contamination as they keep feed off the ground.

• Treadle Feeders: Are pest-proof and open only when chickens step on the pedal.

Placement Tips:

• Position feeders at back height to prevent chickens from perching and contaminating their feed.

• Ensure feeders are easily accessible and can accommodate multiple chickens at once.

Maintaining Chicken Health and Cleanliness

Maintaining health and cleanliness in a backyard chicken coop is essential for the flock's well-being and productivity. A regular cleaning schedule prevents disease and controls parasites, all of which contribute to the overall health of chickens in Hanford, CA.

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Chickens require a clean environment to thrive, making a consistent cleaning routine crucial. Coop floors should be covered with absorbent materials like sand, which is beneficial for easy cleaning and provides a natural scratching area for chickens. It's recommended to:

• Daily:

  • Remove droppings.

  • Check and refill feeders and waterers, making sure they are clean and free from debris.

  • Collect eggs to prevent soiling and possible breakages.

• Weekly:

  • Change or refresh bedding materials to prevent dampness and the build-up of droppings and feathers.

• Monthly:

  • Conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire coop, including the removal of all bedding, washing down surfaces, and disinfecting.

Preventing and Dealing with Disease

Disease prevention is best approached by keeping the coop clean and by monitoring chickens regularly for signs of illness. Infectious diseases such as salmonellosis can be prevented by:

• Ensuring chickens have access to fresh, clean water.

• Providing diets rich in nutrients that meet specific poultry requirements.

• Isolating sick chickens immediately to prevent spread to other flock members.

Parasite Control

Control of parasites like mites and lice is vital for the health of backyard chickens. To manage and prevent parasites:

• Internal Parasites:

  • Provide a suitable diet that includes seeds, which can naturally help control worms.

  • Consider adding food-grade diatomaceous earth to feed, which can aid in internal parasite control.

• External Parasites:

  • Perform regular checks on chickens for signs of external parasites.

  • Apply safe, poultry-specific treatments for mite and lice infestations.

  • Keep the coop dry and well-ventilated to inhibit parasite reproduction.

Managing the health and cleanliness of a backyard coop involves diligent care and attention to both the environment and the chickens themselves. Regular cleaning, disease prevention, and parasite control are the cornerstones of fostering a safe and productive home for backyard chickens in Hanford, CA.

Protecting Against Predators

In Hanford, California, safeguarding chickens from local predators is paramount for backyard chicken enthusiasts. Appropriate measures to reinforce coop defenses and awareness of common predators are essential to prevent losses.

Common Predators in Hanford

Hanford's chicken owners most commonly face threats from predators such as coyotes, raccoons, and hawks. These predators exhibit different behaviors and hunting techniques, making it essential to adopt a multifaceted approach to security:

• Coyotes: Known for their cunning and ability to dig beneath fences.

• Raccoons: Notorious for their dexterity, capable of opening latches and exploiting small openings.

• Hawks: Predatory birds that attack from above, requiring protection for chicken runs.

Strengthening Coop Defenses

The first line of defense in protecting backyard chickens is the structural integrity of the coop. Attention to detail can make a significant impact on security:

• Walls and Flooring: Ensure there are no holes larger than a quarter. Use 1/2 inch hardware cloth as a sturdy material to cover openings.

• Doors and Windows: All entry points should be tightly shut and locked at night to prevent access by nimble predators.

• Roofing: To shield the chicken run from aerial predators like hawks, a solid roof or hardware cloth is best. Simple netting may deter but is not impenetrable.

• Perimeter Security: An electric fence is effective in deterring ground-based predators like coyotes and raccoons and can be powered by a solar charger for sustainability.

By conscientiously implementing these measures, chicken owners in Hanford can create a secure environment for their flocks, mitigating the risks posed by local predators.

Rearing Chicks to Hens

Raising chickens from chicks to fully mature hens in Hanford, California, demands attention to detail through the stages of incubation, rearing pullets, and integration into the flock. Attention to nutrition, proper heat, and socialization are crucial for healthy development.

Incubation and Hatching

For successful incubation and hatching, one must maintain a stable temperature of 99.5°F and humidity levels around 55-65%, increasing to about 70% in the last few days. Eggs should be turned at least three times a day to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the embryo from sticking. After hatching, chicks require a warm environment to thrive, ideally with a heat lamp to keep the ambient temperature around 95°F for the first week, reducing it by 5°F each week until they are acclimated.

Rearing Pullets

Once chicks hatch, they enter the pullet stage. Pullets need a diet rich in protein to aid their growth; feed them an 18-20% starter feed crumbles for the first 8 weeks, followed by a 16-18% starter/grower until week 14, and then a 16% finisher until they reach 18 weeks. Access to fresh water and a draft-free living space are vital for pullets to develop properly. Monitor for signs of illness or distress, providing vaccinations as necessary.

Integrating Into the Flock

Integration into the flock should be gradual to avoid stress and aggression from older hens. Initially, introducing pullets to the flock can begin with visual contact without physical interaction, such as placing them in adjacent but separate areas. Over time, allow supervised mingling periods to observe interactions. Full integration is often smoother when pullets are close to laying age, as size and maturity can help them hold their own within the flock's social hierarchy.

The Social Life of Chickens

Chickens are gregarious birds that thrive within a structured social hierarchy, often referred to as the pecking order. Their interactions with each other and with their human caretakers can be complex and are essential for maintaining a harmonious backyard flock in Hanford, CA.

Flock Dynamics

In any backyard flock, chickens establish a pecking order that determines their access to food, nesting sites, and perching spots. This hierarchy is typically led by a rooster if one is present; he acts as the protector and the leader. Hens also have their own pecking order amongst themselves. Lower-ranked chickens wait for the higher-ranked members to eat first and may be pecked lightly if they attempt to challenge this order.

• Roosters are known to perform a variety of roles, including:

  • Guarding the flock against predators

  • Finding and sharing food with the hens

  • Leading the flock's daily activities

• Hens are known to:

  • Engage in social grooming, termed "preening"

  • Establish relationships with other hens, sometimes showing preferences for certain flock members

Observing these dynamics can be essential for ensuring that aggression does not become problematic—particularly in the confined spaces of a backyard setting.

Interaction with People and Pets

Chickens can interact well with people, often recognizing individual caretakers and responding to their presence with vocalizations or by approaching them. Building trust through regular, gentle handling and positive associations (like treats) can forge a strong bond between chickens and their human companions. They are generally docile, but individual personalities vary, and some may be more sociable than others.

Interaction with pets, such as dogs or cats, depends significantly on the individual animals and their temperaments. It's possible for chickens to coexist peacefully with household pets if they are introduced properly and monitored closely. However, always ensure the safety of the flock since some pets may retain predatory instincts toward birds.

• Proper introductions to household pets should be:

  • Gradual

  • Supervised

  • Done in a controlled environment to ensure the safety of all animals involved

By understanding the social dynamics of chickens and their relationships with humans and other pets, caretakers in Hanford can create a thriving and peaceful backyard environment for their feathered companions.

Egg Harvesting and Usage

Egg harvesting and storage are essential for maintaining the quality and safety of eggs from backyard chickens. Utilizing fresh eggs can offer a delightfully tasteful experience, particularly for breakfast dishes.

Collecting and Storing Eggs

One should collect eggs frequently to ensure their freshness and to prevent any potential damage. Ideally, eggs should be collected at least once a day from the nesting boxes. After collecting, eggs should be promptly wiped clean of any dirt or debris with a dry cloth or a fine abrasive. Washing with water is not recommended as this can remove the protective bloom and shorten their shelf life.

For storing eggs, it’s recommended to place them in a refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F. They should be stored in their cartons or a covered container to avoid the absorption of strong odors. It’s advisable to consume eggs within three weeks from the collection for optimal quality.

Uses of Fresh Backyard Eggs

Fresh eggs from backyard chickens are versatile and can be used in a multitude of dishes, with breakfast being a popular option. Here is a table of breakfast ideas utilizing fresh eggs:

Breakfast Ideas Description Scrambled Eggs Soft, gently stirred eggs in a hot pan Omelets Folded eggs with fillings like cheese and ham Quiche Open-faced pastry filled with eggs and cream Poached Eggs Eggs cooked in simmering water

Furthermore, fresh eggs can also be used in baking for their binding properties, in sauces like hollandaise, or simply boiled as a nutritious snack. Fresh eggs, due to their richer taste and texture, tend to enhance any dish they are added to.

Community Engagement and Legal Considerations

Raising backyard chickens in Hanford, California requires understanding and compliance with specific local ordinances, as well as meaningful engagement with the community to foster a supportive environment for urban agriculture.

Sharing Surplus with Neighbors

Residents involved in raising chickens often find themselves with an excess of fresh eggs. Local ordinances permit the distribution of this surplus to neighbors, fostering a sense of community and sharing in urban areas. This practice can aid in creating a micro-economy within Hanford, where fresh, locally-sourced produce is valued and exchanged among residents.

Local Agriculture Community

The agricultural community in Hanford is a resourceful network, from farmers in rural areas to urban backyard enthusiasts. They often collaborate for the betterment of local agriculture, sharing insights and practices. Through community organizations and social media groups, citizens of Hanford can connect with experienced farmers from surrounding areas like Bakersfield and Sacramento, gaining knowledge pertinent to raising chickens successfully in the local climate.

Showing and Competitions

For those in Hanford who are interested in more than just raising chickens for eggs, there is the option to participate in poultry shows and competitions. These events provide an opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts and experts in the field, and they are held in various locations across the state, including Los Angeles and San Diego. Competitions are guided by strict animal welfare standards and promote the improvement of chicken breeds. Local ordinances specify that chickens must be kept in appropriate coops, a regulation equally important for those raising show-quality birds.