Raising Backyard Chickens in Lawton, OK
Essential Tips for Beginners
Raising backyard chickens is a practice that has seen a resurgence in various communities, including Lawton, Oklahoma. Residents of Lawton considering the addition of chickens to their backyards must navigate the local ordinances to ensure that they comply with the city's regulations. In Lawton, the city code mandates that any homeowner looking to keep chickens obtain a permit from the Animal Welfare Department, which is a step aimed at ensuring the welfare of the animals and the interests of the community.
It is important for potential chicken owners in Lawton to recognize that while chickens are permitted, roosters are specifically excluded from the allowed backyard poultry due to noise considerations. This aligns with common urban agriculture policies aimed at minimizing disturbances in residential areas. Moreover, those living within the city limits must adhere to any additional guidelines that govern the care, confinement, and maintenance of their chickens to ensure they do not run afoul of local ordinances.
For those successfully navigating the permitting process, raising chickens can offer a range of benefits, from producing fresh eggs to contributing to garden composting. Oklahoma generally fosters an environment encouraging self-sufficiency and sustainability practices, which is evident in its allowance of backyard chickens in various cities. As such, Lawton residents have the opportunity to participate in this aspect of urban homesteading, provided they follow city-specific requirements.
Understanding Local Ordinances and Permits
In Lawton, Oklahoma, residents interested in raising backyard chickens must navigate various local ordinances and permit requirements. These regulations are in place to ensure that the activity is carried out responsibly and harmoniously within residential areas.
Permit Requirements: Residents must obtain a permit from the Animal Welfare Department. This is mandatory and serves as official permission to keep chickens within city limits.
Rooster Restrictions: The city code is clear in that roosters are not permitted. This is typical of urban chicken regulations, intended to minimize noise disruptions.
Local Regulations: Each municipality in Oklahoma, including but not limited to Oklahoma City, Edmond, Midwest City, Norman, Stillwater, and Tulsa, may have different rules concerning the number of chickens allowed, coop specifications, and distance from neighboring dwellings. For specific details on the regulations in Lawton, it is recommended that individuals contact the License and Permit Office located at:
212 SW 9th Street
Lawton, OK 73501
United States
Phone: 580-581-3360
Zoning Laws: Apart from permit requirements, residents should be aware of state zoning laws which can influence where chickens may be kept within residential zones of the city.
Conforming to these local government ordinances and conducting due diligence is crucial for anyone looking to raise backyard chickens legally in Lawton. It ensures that this urban agricultural practice is in compliance with municipal codes, maintaining the welfare of the animals and the rights and peace of neighboring residents.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds
Selecting the right chicken breeds for a backyard flock in Lawton, OK involves understanding breed characteristics and how they interact with the local climate.
Characteristics of Common Breeds
Australorps: These birds are renowned for their egg-laying prowess, typically producing a remarkable 250 to 300 eggs annually. They are hardy and adaptable to various environments, making them a versatile choice for poultry keepers.
Orpingtons: Known for their friendly demeanor and fluffy feathers, Orpingtons are excellent for colder climates because of their thick plumage. They lay moderately well, with an average of around 190 eggs per year.
Breed Egg Production Suitability for Lawton Australorps High (250-300/year) Good Orpingtons Moderate (around 190/year) Moderate
Considerations for Lawton Climates
Lawton, OK experiences seasonal climate conditions which should influence breed selection:
Summer Heat: Choose breeds like the Australorp that are heat-tolerant.
Winter Chill: While not extremely harsh, Lawton winters can benefit from breeds with good cold resilience, such as Orpingtons, which have dense feathering to maintain body heat.
When raising chickens in Lawton, it is important to consider these climate factors to ensure the health and productivity of the flock.
Setting Up Your Chicken Coop
When setting up a chicken coop in Lawton, OK, the focus must be on the size and design, protection measures, and maintenance necessities to ensure a functional and secure environment for the chickens.
Coop Size and Design
The design of a chicken coop must offer sufficient space for chickens to exhibit natural behaviors. Each chicken requires a minimum of 2-3 square feet of space inside the coop and 8-10 square feet outside in the shelter area for roaming. Coops should include both roosting bars and nesting boxes—typically one box per 3-4 hens.
Ventilation: Proper airflow without drafts.
Insulation: To protect from Lawton's weather extremes.
Lighting: Natural or artificial light for consistent laying patterns.
Heating: If necessary during winter, but with safety precautions.
Safety and Protection from Predators
Coops must be secure to keep chickens safe from predators such as raccoons, opossums, and hawks commonly found in the Lawton area.
Protection Strategies:
Construction: Use sturdy materials with no gaps or weak points.
Fencing: Buried hardware cloth to deter digging predators.
Locks: Secure latching mechanisms on all coop doors.
Roof: Solid or wire mesh to prevent entry from above.
Some owners may also consider automatic coop doors that close at dusk and open at dawn, reducing the risk of nocturnal predator attacks.
Coop Maintenance Essentials
Maintaining a clean and healthy environment is crucial for the wellbeing of backyard chickens.
Maintenance Checklist:
Daily: Remove waste and provide fresh food and water.
Weekly: Replace or refresh bedding material.
Seasonally: Deep clean and inspect the coop for needed repairs.
Additional products like coop deodorizers can help control odors and reduce the attraction to pests. Regular maintenance not only keeps chickens happy but also supports the longevity of the coop itself.
Raising Chicks to Hens
Raising chicks requires careful attention to their environment and diet to ensure they grow into healthy hens. Two critical phases in this process are the initial brooding period and the subsequent transition to a coop.
Starting with a Brooder
In the first few weeks of life, chicks must live in a brooder. A brooder is a warm, safe, and controlled environment that replicates the warmth and security that a mother hen would typically provide. Essential elements of a successful brooder include:
Heat source: A heat lamp should maintain a temperature of approximately 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the first week and decrease by five degrees each subsequent week.
Bedding: Pine shavings work well for absorbing waste and providing comfort.
Food and water: Chicks need constant access to fresh water and starter feed that's high in protein to support rapid growth.
Space: They require enough space to move freely without overcrowding, which can lead to stress and illness.
Transitioning to the Coop
Once chicks are feathered, typically around 5-6 weeks of age, they are ready to move to a more permanent home—a chicken coop. Important considerations during this transition include:
Acclimatization: Gradually introduce chicks to the outside temperatures to acclimatize them over a week.
Feed: Transition the chicks from starter feed to grower feed, which has a balanced nutrient profile suitable for their development stage.
Safety: Ensure the coop is predator-proof with solid construction and secure latches.
Space: Provide ample space for each hen to roost, as cramped conditions can lead to pecking and stress.
By following these guidelines, one can successfully raise chicks into hens in Lawton, OK, accounting for both their immediate needs as young birds and their requirements as they grow.
Feeding Your Backyard Chickens
Properly feeding backyard chickens is crucial for their health and egg production. Understanding the appropriate feed types, meal schedules, and nutritional supplements will ensure a well-nourished flock.
Types of Chicken Feed
Starter Feed: This is essential for chicks up to 6 weeks old and typically contains 20-24% protein.
Grower Feed: Given to chickens from 6-20 weeks old, it has a reduced protein content of around 16-18%.
Layer Feed: Adult laying hens require layer feed, which has about 16% protein and added calcium to aid in eggshell formation.
Chicken feeders should be used to provide feed and prevent waste.
Feeding Schedule and Portions
Chickens thrive on routine and should be fed twice daily; once in the morning and once in the evening. Portions depend on:
The age of the chicken: Younger chickens consume less than adults.
The size of the chicken: Larger breeds will require more feed.
Typically, an adult hen will eat roughly 1/4 to 1/3 pound of feed per day.
It is important to use feeder equipment to keep the feed clean and dry.
Supplements and Treats
Grit: Essential for digestion, it should be available at all times in a separate feeder.
Oyster Shells: A source of calcium, these should be provided to laying hens in a separate feeder alongside their regular feed.
Mealworms: A protein-rich treat that should be given sparingly.
Treats: Such as vegetables, fruits, and grains can be fed in moderation to ensure chickens do not become overweight.
Regularly providing these foods using chicken feeders helps maintain a balanced diet and stimulates natural foraging behavior.
Health and Chicken Welfare
Raising chickens in backyard settings in Lawton, Oklahoma, demands attention to health and welfare to ensure the birds thrive in a clean, safe environment. Awareness and implementation of appropriate healthcare practices are fundamental for maintaining a healthy flock.
Common Health Issues
Chickens can be affected by a variety of health issues, such as parasitic infestations, respiratory diseases, and bacterial infections. The presence of mites and lice is a common concern, and these parasites can cause discomfort and decreased egg production. Respiratory diseases are often indicated by symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. Bacterial infections, such as salmonella, can affect not only the chickens but also humans who come into contact with them.
Parasitic infestations: Regular inspection for external parasites.
Respiratory diseases: Monitoring for symptoms and segregating affected birds.
Bacterial infections: Ensuring good sanitation to prevent outbreaks.
Routine Care Practices
Consistent management practices play a crucial role in maintaining the well-being of backyard chickens. Good sanitation is imperative to control the spread of diseases and offensive odors. Regular cleaning of the coop and proper disposal of manure are essential. Incorporating an anti-pecking spray can deter birds from harmful behaviors like feather pecking.
Sanitation: Clean coops and frequent removal of waste.
Offensive odors: Measures to minimize odor, improving environment for both chickens and neighbors.
Anti-pecking spray: Used to prevent chickens from pecking each other.
Specialized equipment, like chicken pluckers, can be used during slaughtering to efficiently remove feathers, but slaughtering itself must be done following humane and legal guidelines to ensure the welfare of the birds is considered.
Egg Collection and Storage
When it comes to egg production in backyard chickens, establishing a methodical approach to egg collection and storage is critical to maintain the quality and safety of eggs. Lawton residents must focus on creating an impeccable nesting box environment and handle eggs with care post-collection.
Nesting Box Setup
A proper nesting box setup is pivotal for encouraging hens to lay their eggs in a designated area. Each nesting box should accommodate only one hen and be positioned in a quiet, dark corner of the coop to offer security and comfort. Nesting boxes typically measure about 12 inches by 12 inches, lined with clean straw or shavings to cushion eggs as they are laid.
Checklist for an Ideal Nesting Box Setup:
Space: One box for every 4-5 hens.
Dimensions: Approximately 12” x 12” per box.
Location: Sheltered and away from the coop's entrance.
Bedding: Soft, absorbent materials like straw or pine shavings.
Maintenance: Regular cleaning to ensure hygiene.
Handling Fresh Eggs
Once eggs are laid, they should be collected at least once daily. Gentle handling is key to prevent cracking and keep eggs intact. Upon collection, eggs need to be cleaned of any dirt or feathers and can be done so with a dry or slightly damp cloth; the use of water is often discouraged as it removes the egg's natural protective coating.
Details on egg handling:
Frequency: Collect eggs daily to prevent damage or spoiling.
Cleaning: Wipe eggs with a dry brush or cloth; use minimal water.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate as soon as possible.
Temperature: Keep eggs at a consistent temperature, ideally below 40°F (4°C).
Proper collection and storage ensure that the fresh eggs from backyard chickens remain a safe and healthy food source for Lawton residents.
Managing Backyard Chicken Behavior
When raising a backyard flock in Lawton, OK, it is crucial for any novice or experienced chicken keeper to understand and manage the flock's behavior effectively. This helps maintain a peaceful coexistence among the birds and promotes their well-being.
Understanding the Pecking Order
The pecking order is an innate hierarchical structure that chickens establish within their social groups. It governs their interactions and access to resources. Roosters typically sit at the top of this hierarchy, although a backyard flock in Lawton may not include them due to city restrictions. Birds lower in the pecking order can show signs of stress or be bullied, so it's important to monitor their behavior for any signs of "henpecking" and keep the flock size manageable to minimize conflicts.
Signs of a settled pecking order include:
Consistent feeding order
Established roosting spots with higher positions typically taken by higher-ranked chickens
Indicators of pecking order issues:
Frequent pecking and chasing
Submissive chickens may appear shy or jumpy
Methods to Prevent Pecking and Aggression
Preventing pecking and aggression is key to a harmonious backyard flock. Chicken keepers can employ several strategies to minimize these behaviors:
Provide ample space: Ensure that chickens have enough room in their coop and run to reduce stress and aggression, following Lawton's space regulations.
Introduce toys and distractions: Hanging greens, food pecking blocks or a xylophone designed for chickens can reduce boredom and, therefore, pecking.
Utilize coop cameras: Installing cameras can help keepers monitor flock dynamics, especially for those unable to observe their flock throughout the day.
Implement roosting bars at different heights: To accommodate the pecking order at roosting time, provide multiple roosting bars so higher-ranked chickens can roost higher if they choose.
By understanding the pecking order and utilizing methods to prevent pecking and aggression, chicken keepers in Lawton can create a serene environment for their backyard chickens.
Compliance and Good Neighbor Practices
When raising backyard chickens in Lawton, OK, residents must adhere to specific regulations to ensure the well-being of their community and birds. Consistent compliance and engagement in practices that consider neighbors' comfort are vital.
Maintaining Cleanliness and Odor Control
Clean Coops:
Daily: Remove droppings and refresh water.
Weekly: Change bedding material and clean feeders.
Composting Manure:
Create a composting area away from neighbor's property to reduce odor.
Turn compost regularly to aid in decomposition and odor minimization.
Lawton's local laws mandate that residents keep their chicken enclosures clean to prevent attracting pests and minimize the odor. They should manage waste effectively and ensure that coops do not disturb neighbors with any foul smells.
Addressing Noise Concerns
Roosters:
Lawton's chicken laws prohibit roosters due to their potential noise disruption.
Hens:
While hens are generally quieter, clucking can still affect neighbors.
Owners should position coops away from property boundaries to lessen noise impact.
Noise is a significant concern when it comes to urban chicken keeping. Lawton's regulations actively address this by prohibiting roosters, known for crowing at early hours. Hen owners should be considerate of their neighbors by placing coops strategically to reduce any possible disturbances caused by clucking.
Community and Legal Considerations
Raising backyard chickens in Lawton, Oklahoma requires awareness of local regulations and community engagement. Compliance with city ordinances and understanding local chicken laws is essential for all chicken owners.
Engaging with Local Chicken Owners
Local chicken owners are a valuable resource for sharing advice and experiences relevant to the specific conditions in Lawton. They can provide insights on best practices and may also inform newcomers about community expectations and norms when it comes to backyard poultry. Chicken owners should consider joining community groups or online forums dedicated to poultry enthusiasts in the area.
Lawton Chicken Laws | ChickenLaws.com: Residents must obtain a permit from the Animal Welfare Department.
BYC in Lawton Ok | BackYard Chickens: Check jurisdiction as some areas near Lawton may have different codes.
Keeping Up-to-Date with Changing Laws
Laws and ordinances relevant to chicken keeping are subject to change. It is the responsibility of chicken owners to stay informed on current legal requirements. This includes understanding restrictions such as the prohibition of roosters, as these can impact the way Lawton residents manage their backyard flocks.
Permit Requirement: Mandatory for backyard chicken keeping.
Obtain from: Animal Welfare Department.
Rooster Restriction: Not permitted within city limits.
Maximum Number of Chickens: Often dictated by local zoning laws; check current guidelines.
These rules are put in place to balance the interests of the chicken owners and the broader community, ensuring the well-being of both the chickens and the residents of Lawton.
Additional Concerns
When raising backyard chickens in Lawton, OK, owners may consider expanding their poultry family or managing larger flocks. There are specific nuances when integrating other poultry, like ducks, and detailed planning is required for handling more chickens effectively.
Integrating Other Poultry Like Ducks
Incorporating ducks into a chicken coop requires careful consideration of both species' needs. Ducks generally require more water than chickens, not just for drinking but also for bathing. When building a habitat for ducks, ensure they have access to a water source that can accommodate these needs without compromising the chickens' living area. Ducks can be messier and may create a more humid environment, which could affect the chickens negatively.
Expansion and Managing Larger Flocks
When expanding a flock, it is crucial to consider space requirements and flock dynamics. The chicken run should provide ample space for chickens to move freely. A general rule is to allocate about 10 square feet per chicken in the run. Moreover, introducing new birds, such as pullets or hatching eggs, should be done gradually to allow for proper acclimatization and to maintain the social structure of the existing flock. Larger flocks also accentuate the need for diligent health monitoring and increased food and water supply.
When managing larger flocks, consider:
Number of Chickens: Lawton may have regulations on the maximum allowable chickens. Always abide by local laws.
Shelter: More birds mean more space indoors and outdoors. Adequately size the coop and run for the flock.
Healthcare: Larger flocks have a higher risk of disease spread. Implement regular health checks and maintain veterinary care.
Feeding: Adequate and well-distributed feeding stations to prevent crowding and competition.
By addressing these concerns, owners can ensure their backyard chickens and other poultry live harmoniously and healthily in Lawton, OK.
Tools and Accessories for Chicken Rearing
When raising backyard chickens in Lawton, OK, certain tools and accessories are essential for a healthy flock. The following list provides the basic needs for any aspiring chicken keeper.
Shelter: A sturdy shed or coop is critical for protecting the chickens from predators and harsh weather. It should be spacious enough to allow for at least 3 square feet per chicken and should be equipped with proper ventilation.
Bedding: Pine shavings are a popular choice for bedding because they are absorbent and help to control odors. Make sure to maintain a clean and dry environment inside the henhouse.
Feeding Equipment:
Feeders: A durable feeder that prevents waste and can withstand the pecking and scratching of the chickens.
Automatic Feeders: These are especially useful, as they can help maintain a consistent feeding routine and deter pests.
Watering Solutions:
Waterers: Chickens need constant access to fresh water. Bell feeders or water nipples can be attached to a clean water source.
Tip: In winter, consider using heated waterers to prevent freezing.
Predator Deterrents:
Fencing: A secure and tall fence around the coop and run can help keep out dogs and other predators.
Hardware Cloth: Installing hardware cloth can be an added security to ensure smaller predators cannot infiltrate the coop.
A well-equipped backyard setup will lead to healthier chickens and a more manageable experience for the keeper.
