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Keeping Backyard Chickens : Small Farms : University of Minnesota Extension Page 2 0�2 ' <br /> Waterers and feeders can be purchased or made with the most basic carpentry skilis. The investment in <br /> equipment can literally be nothing if you can scrounge up makeshift feeders and containers for waterers. If <br /> you would rather purchase these, the investment is minimal, typically less than $50. <br /> If you would like to have maximum egg production during the winter, laying hens require at least 14 to 16 <br /> hours of light each day. This can be accomplished with a simple timer and a small light bulb. So as you <br /> consider housing options, consider the need for electricity for lighf, as well as a small heater to keep the <br /> water from freezing in the winter. Electricity in the coop is convenient but not an absolute necessity. <br /> Predators may be your greatest production challenge. Chickens allowed to roam will head for the chicken <br /> coop to roost as the sun begins to set, but you still need to protect them from various critters. The most <br /> common predators are skunks, raccoons, raptors, weasels and foxes- as well as domestic dogs. Indeed, <br /> protecting your chickens from someone's meal will be a primary concern and should be high on your"to-do" <br /> list. We're not the only ones that like chicken. <br /> Keeping a small flock can be rewarding on many levels, but will be most evident when you begin to eat the <br /> fresh eggs or meat. You'll marvel at the flavor of free-range eggs and will wonder when commercial chicken <br /> lost some of its flavor. <br /> CATEGORIES: <br /> Livestock <br /> Leave a comment <br /> Si4n in to comment. <br /> �2012 Regents of the Universlty of Minnesota.All rights reserved. <br /> The University of Minnesata is an equal opportunily educator and employer <br /> http://blog.lib.umn.edu/efans/small-farms/2012/06/keeping-backyazd-chickens.php 1/17/2013 <br />