Raising Backyard Chickens in Lakewood, OH
A Comprehensive Guide for Urban Poultry Keepers
In Lakewood, Ohio, the practice of raising backyard chickens has garnered attention and interest from local residents. Recognizing the benefits of homegrown food sources and sustainability, the Lakewood City Council approved an ordinance in May 2016 that allows residents to keep backyard hens. The ordinance followed a successful pilot project that highlighted the viability and positive impact of urban poultry-keeping in the area. Raising chickens in a city environment offers individuals the chance to engage with local food production, reduce kitchen waste through feeding it to the hens, and benefit from fresh eggs.
Before embarking on the journey of raising hens, Lakewood citizens must navigate the city's specific requirements to ensure a harmonious and legal backyard coop. A Henkeeping Permit is necessary, with a nominal fee, and potential hen-keepers must provide proof of a Backyard Hen Training Certificate. Additionally, the city has set clear guidelines about the number of hens allowed and coop specifications to uphold the well-being of the chickens and address any neighborhood concerns.
Adhering to these regulations not only maintains compliance with city laws but also promotes responsible and successful hen-raising. The community of Lakewood has seen a growing number of urban chicken enthusiasts who appreciate the local ordinance's structure, which supports both the animals' health and the community's standards. As such, raising backyard chickens in Lakewood represents a small yet significant step toward local sustainability and reconnecting with the sources of our food.
Understanding the Basics of Backyard Chickens
Raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, OH, presents an opportunity for residents to enjoy fresh eggs, natural pest control, and the pleasure of caring for these birds. To begin, prospective chicken keepers should familiarize themselves with the essentials of chicken care and local regulations.
Local Regulations: Before setting up a coop, individuals must check Lakewood’s specific ordinances regarding the keeping of backyard chickens. Often, there are limits on the number of hens allowed, and roosters may be prohibited due to noise concerns.
Chicken Breeds: Selecting the right breed is crucial. Breeds like the Golden Comet are recommended for beginners due to their friendly nature and prolific egg-laying abilities with approximately 250-300 eggs per year.
Life Stages:
Chicks (0-8 weeks) require 18-20% protein starter feed.
Young Hens (8-14 weeks) need 16-18% starter/grower feed.
Laying Hens (15-18 weeks and older) should have a diet with at least 16% protein finisher feed to support egg production.
Shelter and Space: Chickens need a secure coop to protect against predators and harsh weather. Each bird requires about 2-3 square feet of space inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in an outdoor run.
General Care: Owners must provide clean water daily, perform regular coop cleaning to prevent disease, and give proper health care with routine checks for parasites and other health issues.
One raises chickens not only for the practical benefits they provide but also for the joy and companionship these animals can offer. Starting small and expanding as experience grows is a practical approach for those new to chicken raising in Lakewood.
Choosing the Right Location in Lakewood
When selecting a location for raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, Ohio, residents must consider several factors. The optimal spot should balance practicality with adhering to local regulations.
Zoning and Regulations: First, verify that the chosen location conforms to Lakewood's city ordinance regarding backyard hens. The ordinance, passed in 2016, allows for the raising of hens but may have specific requirements on where coops can be placed within a property.
Space for Coops: Coop placement is critical. Opt for a site that:
Is on firm, well-drained soil to prevent standing water and to maintain a hygienic environment.
Has sufficient sunlight and shade to keep chickens comfortable throughout the year.
Is away from property lines to minimize noise and odor affecting neighbors.
Safety and Accessibility:
Ensure that the area is safe from predators and has a sturdy fence if chickens are allowed to roam freely.
It should also be easily accessible for cleaning and egg collection.
The Impact on Neighbors:
Consider the proximity to neighboring homes. A respectful distance ensures minimal disturbance.
In summary, the right location in Lakewood for raising chickens is one that meets city requirements, provides a healthy environment for the chickens, prioritizes safety, and considers the impact on the surrounding community.
Designing Your Chicken Coop for Safety and Comfort
Creating a chicken coop that ensures the safety and comfort of backyard chickens is essential. The design must account for protection against elements and predators, along with facilitating easy maintenance.
Coop Essentials
A sturdy chicken coop should provide shelter, a place for chickens to roost, and lay eggs. It's essential to include nesting boxes filled with hay or pine shavings as bedding for egg-laying. Ventilation is key to dispersing ammonia fumes and providing fresh air, so adequate windows or vents should be installed above the chickens' heads to prevent drafts. The coop should also be spacious enough to avoid overcrowding, with at least 2-3 square feet per chicken.
Roosting Bars: Arrange them away from windows to keep chickens sheltered from elements.
Nesting Boxes: One box for every three hens, filled with soft bedding material.
Ventilation: High-placed vents or windows with protective screens.
Protecting Against Predators
Lakewood, OH, has various predators such as raccoons, foxes, and hawks. A chicken coop must be fortified against these threats. The use of hardware cloth instead of chicken wire is recommended, as it's harder for predators to tear through. All doors, including access to nesting boxes, should have robust locking mechanisms.
Reinforced Wire: Use hardware cloth with a mesh size of no more than 1/2 inch.
Locks: Install raccoon-proof locks on doors.
Securing the Perimeter: Bury the wire 12 inches deep around the coop to deter digging predators.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Keeping a chicken coop clean is essential for the health of the chickens and ease of care. The coop should be designed for quick access to all areas for cleaning. Using removable trays under roosting bars and nesting boxes can be helpful. Maintain a regular cleaning schedule, and use materials in the coop that are easy to replace or sanitize, such as removable hay or pine shavings.
Removable Trays: Place under roosting areas for simple manure removal.
Material Choice: Opt for non-porous materials that can be easily cleaned or replaced.
Accessibility: Ensure all areas are easily accessible for cleaning without disturbing the birds.
Feeding Your Chickens the Right Diet
Proper nutrition forms the cornerstone of healthy backyard chickens in Lakewood, OH. This section covers the essentials of chicken nutrition, appropriate feed choices, and beneficial supplements and treats to keep your flock thriving.
Understanding Chicken Nutrition
Chickens need a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to maintain their health and productivity. Proteins are fundamental for growth and egg production, with chicks requiring a higher percentage than adult birds. Carbohydrates provide the energy needed for daily activities, and fats are a dense energy source and crucial for body functions.
Key nutritional needs include:
Proteins: Essential for growth and egg production.
Carbohydrates: Main energy source.
Fats: Vital for energy and health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Critical for physiological processes.
Choosing the Right Chicken Feed
Chicken feed varies according to the bird's life stage and purpose, with starter diets for chicks, grower diets for young chickens, and layer diets for egg-laying hens. Starter feeds typically contain 22-24% protein, which supports rapid growth, whereas layers require around 16% protein to produce eggs efficiently.
Common types of feed include:
Starter Feed: 20-24% protein for chicks up to 6 weeks.
Grower Feed: 14-18% protein for chickens from 6 to 20 weeks.
Layer Feed: 16-18% protein for laying hens.
Grains like corn, wheat, and barley are common carbohydrate sources in chicken feed.
Supplements and Treats
While commercial feeds are formulated to meet chickens' nutritional needs, supplements like grit and oyster shells can enhance digestion and eggshell quality. Grit aids in breaking down food, whereas oyster shells provide calcium for strong eggshells.
Beneficial supplements include:
Grit: Helps with food digestion.
Oyster Shells: Source of calcium for eggshell production.
In moderation, treats like mealworms can be offered, providing a protein-rich snack – but they should not exceed 10% of the chicken's diet.
Health and Well-being of Your Flock
Maintaining a healthy backyard chicken flock in Lakewood, OH, necessitates vigilant care and preventative strategies. Specifically, regular health assessments, addressing common ailments swiftly, and protecting the flock from parasites and pests are crucial.
Regular Health Checks
Chickens require consistent monitoring to ensure their health and well-being. Observers should look for changes in behavior, appetite, and egg production, as these can be early indicators of health issues. Water containers must be checked daily to ensure a clean and uninterrupted supply, as water is essential for a chicken's health.
Behavior: Monitor for lethargy, aggression, or withdrawn chickens.
Feathers: Check for parasites, mites, and the overall condition of their feathers.
Droppings: Regularly inspect droppings for signs of abnormality.
Dealing with Common Ailments
Quick identification and treatment of common chicken ailments are important to prevent the spread within the flock. Common issues include respiratory infections, digestive disturbances, and injuries often caused by pecking or predators. Keeping a well-stocked first aid kit and separating ill chickens from the flock can help manage these problems effectively.
Isolation: Isolate sick chickens promptly to hinder disease spread.
Medication: Administer appropriate treatments or consult a veterinarian when necessary.
Preventing Parasites and Pests
Chickens are susceptible to a variety of ectoparasites like mites, lice, and internal parasites like worms. Preventing infestation is key and involves regular coop cleaning, proper waste management, and the use of preventative products recommended by poultry experts.
Coop Maintenance: Clean and disinfect the coop regularly to prevent pest habitation.
Sanitation: Maintain cleanliness in feeding and drinking areas.
Predator Proofing: Ensure the coop is secure against predators which can introduce pests and cause injuries.
Laying and Collecting Fresh Eggs
In Lakewood, Ohio, backyard chicken enthusiasts can experience the joy of raising hens and harvesting fresh eggs. Providing chickens with a balanced diet is essential. Kitchen scraps like lettuce, tomato tops, and corn husks can supplement their feed. This practice not only contributes to the hen's health but also promotes environmentally friendly waste reduction.
Nesting boxes play a crucial role in egg production. A comfortable and sheltered area encourages hens to lay eggs consistently. Each box should be lined with clean straw or shavings to keep the eggs clean. It's recommended to have one box per four to five hens to prevent overcrowding.
Eggs should be collected daily, especially in warm weather, to prevent spoilage and reduce the likelihood of breakage. The process should be gentle, with eggs air-drying completely before storage. If eggs require cleaning, use warm water, which should be warmer than the eggs to avoid bacterial pull into the pores of the eggshell.
For those seeking to encourage year-round laying, supplemental lighting in the coop can be beneficial. Aiming for 14-16 hours of light per day simulates longer spring and summer days, thus boosting egg production during the shorter days of fall and winter.
A chicken tractor is a mobile coop option that allows for relocation around the yard ensuring fresh ground and vegetation for the hens, which can benefit egg quality and quantity. Regular relocation also ensures that chickens contribute to lawn fertilization, without overburdening any individual section of the yard.
By closely following these practices, Lakewood residents can maintain a steady supply of fresh eggs from their feathered backyard companions.
Breeding and Hatching Chickens at Home
Breeding and hatching chickens in Lakewood, OH can be a rewarding venture for homeowners. A successful hatch requires attention to detail and proper equipment, such as incubators and knowledge on rearing chicks, especially during the critical early weeks.
Incubating Eggs
To begin the hatching process, a reliable incubator is essential for maintaining the correct temperature and humidity levels. Eggs typically need to be kept at around 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity of 50-65%, although the latter should be increased to about 70-75% a few days before hatching. Eggs should be turned at least three to five times per day to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell and to ensure even heat distribution.
Temperature: 99.5°F
Initial Humidity: 50-65%
Final Humidity (last few days before hatching): 70-75%
Egg Turning Frequency: 3-5 times daily
Rearing Chicks
Once the chicks hatch, they should be moved to a brooder with controlled heat. During their first week of life, the temperature in the brooder should be approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit, decreasing by 5 degrees each subsequent week until reaching the outside temperature. It's essential to provide chick starter feed with 18-20% protein to ensure proper development. Pullets, or young hens, will require consistent monitoring and care as they grow to maintain health and vitality.
First Week Brooder Temperature: 95°F
Temperature Decrease: 5°F per week
Chick Starter Feed Protein: 18-20%
Legal and Community Considerations
When considering raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, OH, it's essential for residents to be aware of the city-specific regulations and to maintain positive relationships with their neighbors to ensure a harmonious community.
Local Regulations and Laws
In Lakewood, OH, individuals wishing to keep backyard chickens must adhere to city ordinances established for henkeeping. The City Council approved an ordinance in May 2016 after a successful one-year pilot project. The highlights of the regulations include:
Permit Required: Residents must apply for a Henkeeping Permit.
Permit Fee: The cost of this permit is $25.
Permit Validity: It is valid for a period of three years.
Training Certificate: A Backyard Hen Training Certificate is necessary before obtaining a permit.
Coop and Run: Specifications for the chicken coop and run must be submitted.
Interacting with Neighbors
Cordial relations with neighbors are crucial when raising backyard chickens. Ensuring that chickens do not become a nuisance is important for maintaining neighborly relations. Here are some considerations:
Noise Management: Keep coop areas clean to minimize odors and noise.
Property Boundaries: Respect property lines and ensure that coops are not encroaching neighbors’ spaces.
Waste Management: Proper disposal of chicken waste to maintain sanitation can also prevent potential conflicts.
Residents interested in raising backyard hens are encouraged to consult with the city of Lakewood for detailed ordinances and best practices to promote a cooperative environment within the neighborhood.
Integrating Chickens with Other Pets
When introducing chickens to a backyard in Lakewood, OH, where other pets such as dogs and cats reside, owners should consider each animal's behavior and temperament. It's essential to ensure a safe and gradual integration to minimize stress and potential harm.
Dogs:
Owners need to assess their dogs’ prey drive. When first introducing dogs to chickens, do so while the dog is on a leash and under close supervision. Use positive reinforcement to reward calm behavior around the chickens.
Initial Introduction: Short, supervised sessions.
Observation: Watch for signs of aggression or excessive interest.
Training: Reinforce commands like "leave it" to control the dog's impulse.
Cats:
While cats typically pose less of a threat, they can still harass or attempt to hunt chickens. Supervision is crucial during the initial meetings. Cats and chickens can often coexist peacefully once they are accustomed to one another, but smaller chicks should be protected from potential feline predation.
Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the cat's behavior during interactions.
Secure Housing: Ensure chickens have a safe place to retreat.
Animal Shelters:
If integration does not succeed, and pets show persistent aggression, it may be necessary to rethink the chicken project or consult professionals, potentially including staff at animal shelters, for advice and guidance.
In Lakewood, OH, residents must adhere to local ordinances regarding henkeeping, which also includes creating a safe environment for all pets involved. Patience, consistency, and careful monitoring can lead to a harmonious backyard ecosystem.
Engaging Children in Chicken Raising
Raising backyard chickens offers invaluable learning opportunities for children in Lakewood, Ohio. It instills responsibility and educates them on animal care and sustainable living practices. When children participate in raising chickens, they develop a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and the importance of caring for the environment.
Safety First: Before introducing children to chicken raising, it is vital to prioritize safety. Teach them to always wash their hands after handling chickens or any of their equipment to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, proper attire is important:
Long sleeves and pants: To protect against scratches
Closed-toe shoes: To safeguard their feet
Education Through Experience: Chicken raising can be an educational journey for the children. They learn about the chicken's lifecycle, feeding habits, and daily needs. This hands-on experience can be more impactful than reading from a textbook, as it enables children to witness the growth and development of the chickens up close.
Chores and Responsibilities: Assign age-appropriate chores related to the care of the chickens. Children can be tasked with:
Feeding: Measuring and providing the right amount of feed
Watering: Ensuring clean water is available at all times
Egg Collection: Gathering eggs and learning to handle them gently
Through these activities, children in Lakewood can engage in a constructive pastime that enhances their sense of responsibility and self-esteem. As they nurture their feathered friends, they cultivate valuable life skills and an appreciation for nature and farming.
Sustainable Practices and the Use of Chicken By-products
Enthusiasts in Lakewood, OH, are adopting backyard chickens as a cornerstone of sustainable living. These practices not only contribute positively to the environment but also bring practical benefits to the household. By integrating thoughtful strategies such as composting and consuming home-produced eggs, residents amplify sustainability and resource efficiency.
Composting Manure
Composting chicken manure is an effective method of recycling waste into fertilizer. This natural process transforms manure into a nutrient-rich resource ideal for gardening. Here are the steps:
Collect the manure along with other organic matter like leaves or straw.
Mix to ensure proper aeration and moisture.
Monitor the temperature to facilitate decomposition.
Australorps, a popular backyard chicken breed known for their robustness and adaptability, contribute a significant amount of manure, which can be composted to enrich soil health.
Using Eggs in the Household
The use of home-laid eggs from backyard chickens like the Australorp offers additional sustainability. Fresh eggs can be used for:
Cooking: Their superior freshness and taste enhance meals.
Baking: Ideal for confectionery owing to their consistency.
Incorporating eggs into daily diet reduces dependency on store-bought alternatives, minimizing packaging waste and carbon footprint associated with transportation.
Additional Equipment and Accessories
When raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, Ohio, beyond the basic coop and feed, several additional accessories and pieces of equipment are essential for a successful setup. These include reliable chicken feeders, water containers, and environmental controls to ensure the well-being of the hens.
Feeders: Grandpa's Automatic Chicken Feeder is a popular choice among poultry enthusiasts. It serves on demand, reducing waste and preventing pests from accessing the feed. Suitable for a small flock, this feeder underscores efficiency and durability.
Water Containers: Chickens require consistent access to clean water. Options range from bell feeders to water nipples, each facilitating minimal spillage and easy access for the birds. A scrubby should be kept handy to maintain the cleanliness of water containers.
Environmental Controls: A robust heat lamp, equipped with a red bulb and a guard, is critical for maintaining the right temperature, especially for chicks. Extra bulbs should always be in stock as a backup.
Equipment Description Importance Chicken Feeder Feed on demand system Reduces waste and pest access Water Container Bell feeder or water nipples Ensures hydration with minimal mess Heat Lamp With a red bulb and a guard Provides essential warmth, especially vital for young chicks
Owners must also consider the operational hours for procurement of supplies. In Lakewood, sources like the local city hall, available from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, can offer guidance on where to purchase these items. The right equipment will not only keep chickens healthy but can streamline the daily maintenance tasks for the owner.
Conclusion
Raising backyard hens in Lakewood, Ohio, reflects a community embracing sustainable living practices and local food production. Through well-defined regulations, residents can responsibly and legally partake in this activity, contributing to the city's green initiatives. The success of the pilot project and subsequent approval by the city council in May 2016 has set a precedent, showing that with proper management and community support, urban poultry farming can thrive.
Residents interested in raising hens must adhere to city guidelines, which include:
Obtaining necessary permits: A permit application needs to be submitted along with a $25.00 fee.
Completing hen training: A Backyard Hen Training Certificate is a requirement.
Meeting housing specifications: Specifications for the coop and run must comply with the city's standards.
The initiative not only offers an alternative waste management solution, as chickens consume biodegradable kitchen scraps, but also promotes local, fresh egg production. Lakewood's steps toward sustainable living highlight the potential for urban communities to contribute to food sustainability while maintaining harmony with municipal ordinances.
