Keeping Backyard Chickens in Bellevue, WA
Essential Tips for Novice Poultry Keepers
Raising backyard chickens in Bellevue, WA, offers residents the opportunity to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle by producing their own locally sourced eggs and enjoying the companionship of these animals. Bellevue's embrace of urban agriculture reflects a growing trend across Washington state, where cities like Seattle also allow for the practice. Prospective poultry keepers in Bellevue should be aware that the city has specific regulations in place to ensure the health and safety of both the chickens and the community.
Before starting a backyard flock, it is important to understand Bellevue's local ordinances. The city allows a limited number of chickens per household, ensuring that residents can enjoy the benefits of poultry keeping while maintaining harmony within the community. Additionally, potential chicken owners need to consider coop construction and placement on their property, addressing zoning regulations and space requirements to create a suitable environment for their birds.
For those interested in joining Bellevue's community of backyard chicken enthusiasts, information and resources are readily available. Local education programs and community forums offer invaluable guidance, covering everything from the basics of chicken care to understanding and complying with legal aspects of poultry ownership in the city. With the right preparation and knowledge, Bellevue residents can successfully integrate backyard chickens into their homes, contributing to the city's commitment to local, sustainable living.
Legal Considerations and Local Ordinances
Before starting a backyard chicken coop in Bellevue, Washington, residents must understand and comply with various local ordinances that impact the number of chickens allowed, rooster prohibitions, permit requirements, and neighborhood agreements.
Limit on Number of Chickens
In Bellevue, residents are generally allowed to keep up to 6 hens in urban and suburban areas. This restriction helps maintain a balance between urban farming and neighborhood norms.
Prohibitions on Roosters
Due to noise complaints, cities like Bellevue often prohibit roosters in residential areas. It is best for Bellevue residents to only keep hens to avoid breaching local noise ordinances.
Permit Requirements
Residents of Bellevue are required to obtain a permit for the keeping of backyard chickens. Permit fees are $20 per resident and $25 for non-residents. These permits ensure that animal keeping practices comply with state and city regulations.
Neighborhood Agreement
While the Bellevue municipal code does not specify a required neighborhood agreement, it is prudent for residents to inform and discuss with their neighbors about their intentions to keep backyard chickens to avoid any future nuisances or complaints.
Choosing the Right Breed
When deciding to keep backyard chickens in Bellevue, WA, one must carefully select the appropriate breed. The breed choice impacts not only the compatibility with the local climate but also the egg production levels and the temperament of the chickens.
Understanding Chicken Breeds
Chicken breeds come in diverse varieties, each with its own set of characteristics. Some chickens are better suited as pets due to their docile nature, like the Brahma and Silkie, while others are sought after for their distinct appearance or superior egg-laying capabilities. When choosing breeds, potential chicken keepers should consider their personal preferences, space limitations, and the role these birds will play in their backyard.
Selecting for Egg Production
For those keen on egg production, breeds like the Rhode Island Red and Leghorn are prolific layers, well-regarded for their robustness and consistent egg-laying abilities. Ameraucanas produce unique blue and green eggs, adding variety to the production. When selecting pullets — young hens under a year old — consider their future potential for laying, as egg production decreases after the first couple of years.
High egg production: Rhode Island Red, Leghorn
Unique egg colors: Ameraucanas
Considerations for Climate Adaptability
Bellevue's climate requires choosing chicken breeds that can adapt to a range of weather conditions. Cold-hardy chickens such as the Brahma, Cochin, and Wyandotte are equipped to handle Bellevue's cooler temperatures. It's essential to provide shelter during extreme weather, regardless of a breed's cold tolerance. Similarly, for warmer days, heat-tolerant chickens like the Barred Plymouth Rock thrive and require less intervention.
Cold-hardy breeds: Brahma, Cochin, Wyandotte
Heat-tolerant breeds: Barred Plymouth Rock
By understanding and weighing these factors — breed temperament, egg production, and climate adaptability — keepers can ensure a harmonious and productive backyard flock in Bellevue.
Housing Your Chickens
Proper housing is crucial for keeping backyard chickens healthy and secure. A well-designed coop ensures protection from predators, shelters the birds from the elements, and provides a comfortable environment for laying eggs and roosting.
Coop Design Principles
When designing a chicken coop, the focus should be on space, comfort, and the birds' behavioral needs. The coop should allow for 3 to 4 square feet per chicken inside the coop, and 8 to 10 square feet per chicken in an outside run. Proper ventilation is vital to prevent respiratory issues and regulate temperature; however, it's important to position vents to prevent drafts on roosting birds. Ample light is necessary for the chickens' well-being and can be natural or artificial, ensuring a consistent light-dark cycle to support egg-laying.
Essential Features of a Coop
Each coop must have several key features:
Nest Boxes: Aim for at least one 12x12 inch nest box for every 4-5 hens, filled with soft bedding to cushion the eggs.
Roosts: Chickens need a place to sleep off the ground; provide at least 8-12 inches of roosting space per bird.
Secure Door: The door should be sturdy and lockable to keep chickens in and predators out, especially at night.
Ramp: If the coop's entrance is raised, include a gentle slope to allow chickens to walk in and out easily.
Secure latches are a must to prevent clever predators from gaining access.
Protecting Your Flock from Predators
In Bellevue, WA, local wildlife like raccoons and hawks can pose a threat to backyard chickens. To safeguard your flock:
Construction: Use heavy-duty hardware mesh, not chicken wire, for enclosures.
Base Security: Bury the mesh about 12 inches underground to deter digging animals.
Inspection: Regularly check for weak spots or potential entry points in the coop's structure.
Implementing these measures will help protect your chickens from common Bellevue predators.
Daily Care and Management
When raising backyard chickens in Bellevue, WA, daily care and management are pivotal to ensure the well-being of the flock. One must provide a balance of proper nutrition, consistent access to clean water, and maintain hygiene within the coop to keep chickens healthy.
Feeding and Nutrition
Chickens require a diet that is rich in proteins and nutrients to thrive. For chicks aged 0-8 weeks, a starter feed with 18-20% protein content is essential. As they grow, from 8-14 weeks, a starter/grower feed with 16-18% protein can be given. Adult chickens benefit from layer feed that's adequately balanced to support egg production. Grains and grass are also beneficial, as they provide additional nutrients and encourage natural foraging behaviors.
0-8 weeks: 18-20% starter feed crumbles
8-14 weeks: 16-18% starter/grower
15-18 weeks and beyond: 16% layer feed
Clean Water and Proper Hydration
Chickens must have continuous access to clean water for hydration and physiological functions. Waterers should be checked and refilled daily. During colder months, one might employ heated bases to prevent water from freezing. In warmer temperatures, adding more water stations can help to ensure all chickens get enough to drink. Cleanliness is key to prevent the spread of disease—ensure water containers are free from algae and debris.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
A clean environment is crucial for chicken health. Regular coop cleaning involves removing droppings and refreshing the bedding materials, such as straw or shavings, to keep the area dry and ammonia levels low. Nesting boxes should be checked and cleaned daily. Equipment like feeders and waterers needs to be scrubbed clean to prevent mold and bacteria growth. The coop should be spacious enough for the chickens to roost and move around comfortably, with at least 4 square feet per bird to prevent stress and overcrowding. Additionally, a well-maintained coop with secure fencing is also necessary to protect chickens from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Health and Well-being
Keeping backyard chickens in Bellevue, Washington requires attention to their health and well-being to ensure they live productive and comfortable lives. This includes vigilant disease prevention, providing a stress-free environment, and ensuring chickens have access to sunlight and ample space.
Preventing and Responding to Illness
Proper care is the first line of defense in preventing illnesses in backyard poultry. Owners should conduct regular health checks for signs of disease, such as changes in feather condition, abnormal breathing, or lethargy. Vaccinations may be available for common illnesses, and local veterinarians can provide specific guidelines. If illness does occur, isolation of affected birds and prompt medical treatment are crucial to prevent the spread to other poultry in the flock.
Managing Stress and Comfort
To maintain the joy of keeping chickens and their overall peace, minimizing stress is important. This can be achieved by:
Establishing a routine for feeding and cleaning
Providing enrichment such as perches and dust baths
Ensuring the coop is safe from predators
For comfort during colder months, a heat lamp may be used with caution to maintain adequate temperature within the coop.
Importance of Sunlight and Space
Adequate sunlight exposure is essential for a chicken's health, as it is a natural source of vitamin D and helps in regulating their biological rhythms. Furthermore, chickens require ample space to exhibit natural behaviors:
Outdoor space: At least 10 square feet per chicken to avoid overcrowding.
Coop size: Minimal space of 3-4 square feet per bird inside the coop.
Providing sufficient space reduces stress and promotes physical activity, contributing to the overall well-being of backyard chickens.
Egg Handling and Collection
Proper egg handling and collection are vital for ensuring the safety and quality of eggs from backyard chickens. Bellevue residents can rely on effective strategies to gather and store their poultry's eggs.
Setting Up Nesting Boxes
Nesting boxes should be a comfortable and enticing place for hens to lay their eggs. They must be filled with clean, dry bedding such as straw or shavings and should be placed in a quiet, dark area of the coop to encourage laying. Bellevue chicken keepers commonly follow the standard size of one nesting box for every three to four hens to prevent overcrowding.
Egg Collection Routines
Regular egg collection is crucial. Owners should collect eggs at least once a day, but preferably twice, to minimize the risk of eggs getting dirty or being damaged. Establishing a routine also discourages broodiness in hens and reduces the likelihood of egg-eating behavior.
Cleaning and Storing Eggs
Once collected, eggs need to be cleaned with care to remove any dirt or fecal matter. Bellevue residents should use warm water and avoid harsh detergents as eggs are porous. After cleaning, eggs should be dried thoroughly and stored pointed end down to maintain freshness. It is recommended to store eggs at a consistent temperature to prevent condensation which could lead to bacterial growth.
Breeding and Raising Chicks
In Bellevue, WA, breeding and raising chicks requires precise care during incubation, attentive nurturing post-hatching, and careful integration into the existing flock.
Incubation and Hatching
For successful incubation and hatching, maintain a stable environment within the incubator. The key temperature and humidity levels are:
Temperature: 99.5°F (37.5°C)
Humidity: 50-65% for days 1-18; increase to 65-75% for days 19-21
Eggs should be turned three to five times daily until day 18, after which they should remain stationary to allow the chicks to properly orient themselves for hatching.
Caring for Newborn Chicks
After hatching, chicks require a brooding area with:
Heat Source: Maintain temperature at 95°F (35°C) for the first week; reduce by 5°F each week until reaching outdoor temperature
Food and Water: Provide starter feed and fresh water continually
Spacing: Start with 0.5 sq ft per chick, expanding as they grow
Monitor the chicks for signs of distress or disease and maintain clean bedding throughout the brooding period.
Integrating Young Chickens into the Flock
Introduce young chickens to the flock gradually. Start the process when they are fully feathered—usually around 6 weeks of age. Steps for proper integration include:
Quarantine: Keep the young birds separate yet visible to the flock for at least a week.
Size Compatibility: Ensure size and age compatibility to minimize bullying.
Supervised Introductions: Allow for supervised interaction periods over the course of several days.
Provide ample space and resources like feeders and waterers to reduce competition and stress.
Community and Lifestyle
Keeping backyard chickens in Bellevue, WA fosters a sense of community and can bring personal fulfillment. Residents connect through their shared interests in sustainable living and animal care, often finding that chickens are more than just pets or a means for fresh eggs—they are a way to bring neighbors together and enhance the quality of life.
Joining Local Poultry Clubs
Individuals often join local poultry clubs, such as the ones associated with Kelsey Creek Farm Park, to share resources and knowledge. These clubs provide a platform for chicken enthusiasts to:
Exchange tips on chicken care, coop designs, and more
Participate in community events to meet and learn from fellow poultry keepers
Sharing Eggs and Experiences with Neighbors
Backyard chickens provide an opportunity for neighbors to bond over the joy of sharing fresh eggs, a hallmark of the experience. Residents enjoy:
The gift of giving, often sharing surplus eggs with those around them
Personal interactions that strengthen neighborhood relationships
Finding Joy in Backyard Chickens
The simple pleasures of the backyard chicken lifestyle include watching the birds frolic and hearing their gentle clucks. People find joy through:
Observing the chickens' behaviors and distinct personalities
The tranquility and stress relief that come from interacting with their chickens
Advanced Topics
In the context of Bellevue, WA, advanced topics for keeping backyard chickens encompass sustainable practices, participation in poultry exhibitions, and challenges related to diversifying with other types of backyard poultry such as ducks and turkeys.
Sustainable Practices and Expansion
When Bellevue residents consider expanding their backyard chicken operations, they should focus on sustainable practices to maintain productivity and minimize environmental impact. This includes:
Composting: Utilizing chicken waste as compost to enrich garden soil, thereby cycling nutrients.
Rainwater Harvesting: Setting up systems to collect rainwater to provide for the chickens, reducing water usage.
Predator Management: Building secure coops and runs to protect chickens from local predators, which is crucial when increasing the number of chickens beyond the common residential limit.
Participating in Poultry Exhibitions
For those keen on showcasing their flock, Bellevue offers opportunities to participate in poultry exhibitions. Key considerations include:
Health Certifications: Ensuring all chickens are vaccinated and meet the health standards required for exhibitions.
Breed Standards: Understanding and selecting chicken breeds according to exhibition guidelines for competitive showing.
Challenges of Keeping Other Poultry
Diversifying backyard poultry to include ducks or turkeys presents unique challenges:
Space Requirements: Ducks and turkeys often require more space than chickens. A typical guideline might be 10 square feet per duck in a coop or run to ensure adequate room.
Dietary Needs: They have distinct dietary requirements compared to chickens which must be met for their proper growth and health.
Social Dynamics: Introducing new species can disrupt the social hierarchy, leading to stress and possible aggression within the flock.
Conclusion
Residents of Bellevue, WA have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of keeping backyard chickens. The city provides resources like the Kelsey Creek Farm, where individuals can gain valuable insights on how to get started with their own backyard flocks.
When considering the addition of chickens to their backyards, homeowners should be aware of local ordinances. For instance, Belleville permits up to six fowl per household. Chickens offer more than just fresh eggs; they contribute to pest control, provide natural fertilizer, and can be a source of entertainment and education for families.
Successful chicken keeping hinges on adhering to best practices for housing, feeding, and general care. Potential poultry owners should dedicate time to understanding the needs of their birds to ensure a healthy and productive environment.
In summary, they should keep the following points in mind:
Check local regulations to ensure compliance with legal limits on the number of chickens allowed.
Educate themselves thoroughly on chicken care, possibly through local programs.
Prepare suitable accommodations for the birds that will protect them from predators and severe weather conditions.
By following these guidelines, Bellevue residents can foster a rewarding experience with their backyard chickens.
