Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens, 3rd Edition: Care, feeding, Facilities

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced poultry keeper, this guide offers clear, actionable insights to help you thrive in chicken raising. Gail Damerow breaks down complex topics like breed selection, coop construction, and health management into easy-to-follow advice, ensuring you make informed decisions tailored to your goals. From choosing between hearty layers and fast-growing broilers to crafting a safe, efficient living space for your flock, the book covers every step with practical examples and expert tips.Its third edition, published in 2010, remains a trusted resource for those looking to maximize productivity, minimize stress, and create a lasting, enjoyable backyard operation.
Designed for real-world submission, the guide balances technical details with approachable language, making it accessible to readers of all experience levels.You’ll find step-by-step instructions for building coops, recognizing signs of illness, and nurturing chickens for optimal health and performance. The 448-page format includes concise sections that cut through fluff, offering focused solutions for common challenges. With a 4.8-star rating from 744 customers, it’s a go-to tool for anyone aiming to raise chickens responsibly-whether for eggs, meat, or competitive success.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Details on breed selection, coop design, medical care, and more.
- Practical Guidance: Actionable tips for both beginners and seasoned keepers.
- Third Edition: Updated with reliable, time-tested advice as 2010.
- Highly Rated: 4.8 stars from 744 satisfied customers.
- Physical Size: 1.8 pounds, which may feel bulky for some readers.
- Print-only Format: No digital version available for on-the-go access.
- Classic Resource: While thoroughly updated, it may lack modern technology-focused tips.
| Publication Date | February 20, 2010 |
|---|---|
| Edition | 3rd |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 448 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1603424709 |
| Dimensions | 6.19 x 1.31 x 9.31 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.8 pounds |
Lil’Clucker Large Automatic Chicken Waterer Cups | Chicken Water Feeder Suitable for Chicks, Duck, Goose, Turkey and Bunny | Poultry Water Feeder Kit (orange, 12-pack)

Designed for efficiency and ease, this chicken waterer system offers a practical solution for maintaining hydration in your flock. The large 3-inch diameter cups allow chickens to comfortably dip their wattles, while ducks and other small birds can easily access water without spilling or struggling. Crafted with durable materials, thes cups are built to withstand daily use and are compatible with a range of containers, including 5-gallon buckets, making them adaptable for coops, enclosures, or even pet habitats. The straightforward installation process-just drill a 3/8-inch hole in your chosen vessel-ensures minimal setup time, ideal for both novice and experienced poultry keepers. with a 4.4-star rating from over 4,986 customers, this system is trusted for its reliability and simple design that reduces maintenance while keeping your flock content.
Perfect for busy poultry owners, this automatic waterer set minimizes the need for frequent refills and manual monitoring. Its time-saving design ensures a steady water supply, allowing you to focus on other aspects of care. The heavy-duty construction guarantees long-lasting performance, while the universal fit for various containers adds versatility to your setup. Whether you’re managing a small backyard flock or a larger operation, the system’s compatibility with coops and enclosures makes it a versatile addition. with a best sellers rank of #2,298 in Patio, Lawn & Garden, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free, durable upgrade to traditional waterer nipples.
- Pros
- Large 3-inch diameter for easy wattle access and spill prevention
- Simple, no-drill installation with fast setup
- Heavy-duty build for long-term durability
- Compatible with standard 5-gallon containers and coops
- Highly rated for reliability and user satisfaction
- Cons
- Requires drilling, which might potentially be time-consuming for some users
- Limited capacity for very large flocks
- dependent on container size and placement for optimal function
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5-gallon container compatibility |
| Installation | 3/8-inch hole drilling required |
| Dimensions | 9.06 x 7.09 x 3.54 inches |
| Weight | 14.39 ounces |
| Compatibility | Chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, rabbits, and cats |
| Rating | 4.4 out of 5 stars (4,986 reviews) |
Chickens in Your Backyard, Newly Revised and Updated: A Beginner’s Guide (Rodale Classics)

Whether you’re a city dweller with a tiny balcony or a suburban homeowner with a spacious yard, raising backyard chickens is becoming a popular way to embrace sustainability and self-sufficiency. This guide offers a blend of time-tested wisdom and modern insights, making it easier than ever to care for your flock-from building safe, cozy coops to understanding the nuances of feeding and health maintenance. With practical advice tailored to today’s urban and rural lifestyles, it empowers readers to create a thriving surroundings for their chickens while enjoying fresh eggs, a connection to nature, and the satisfaction of nurturing life in their own space.
Designed for both beginners and experienced poultry enthusiasts, the book simplifies complex topics like disease prevention, breeding, and show planning with clear, actionable steps. Its updated edition reflects the latest advancements in chicken care,ensuring readers stay informed about best practices for housing,nutrition,and productivity. The emphasis on real-world applications means you’ll gain confidence in every step of the process, from selecting the right breeds to troubleshooting common challenges. With its concise yet thorough approach, this resource transforms the idea of a backyard homestead into an achievable, rewarding reality.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of chicken care and raising techniques
- Up-to-date facts for modern urban and suburban settings
- Accessible language for both novices and seasoned keepers
- Focus on sustainability, cost-saving, and community engagement
- Positive customer feedback with a high rating
- Cons:
- Limited to 176 pages, potentially omitting advanced topics
- Minimal visual aids, relying on text explanations
- Requires some basic prior knowledge for full understanding
- May need supplements for highly specialized queries
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | May 15, 2018 |
| Format | Updated edition, 176 pages |
| language | english |
| ISBN-10 | 1635650968 |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 0.44 x 9.13 inches |
| Weight | 8 ounces |
| Best seller Rank | #2,242,022 in Books |
Backyard Chickens’ Guide to Coops and Tractors: Planning, Building, and Real-Life Advice

Keeping chickens isn’t just for farms anymore-it’s a growing trend among city dwellers and suburban homeowners alike. With the rise of the backyard chicken revolution,more people are discovering how rewarding it is to raise their own flocks. Imagine having fresh, organic eggs harvested daily, free from artificial additives and pesticides, right in your own backyard. These feathered companions also offer unexpected perks: their droppings can be transformed into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden, and their playful antics add a delightful touch of whimsy to daily life. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, the benefits of backyard chicken husbandry extend far beyond the kitchen table.
This comprehensive guide delivers practical wisdom from real chicken keepers, showcasing 16 custom-built coops-each tailored to different needs and spaces. The inclusion of three portable tractor designs makes it easier than ever to start small and grow. Through detailed plans, vivid photos, and personal stories, readers gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of raising chickens. From selecting the right coop materials to managing a flock, the guide equips you with the knowledge to create a thriving backyard habitat. Plus, with a first edition published in 2011, it’s a trusted resource backed by years of real-world experience.
Pros
- Superior, fresh eggs – Access to organic produce and hatchlings year-round
- Free fertilizer – Natural waste management for gardens and compost
- Engaging companionship – Interactive pets that provide daily joy
- Customizable designs – 16 unique coop plans, including portable options
- Community insights – Real stories from chicken-owning experts
- Beginner-friendly – Step-by-step guidance for new enthusiasts
Cons
- Space requirements – Needs adequate area for movement and nesting
- Maintenance time - Daily feeding, cleaning, and health monitoring
- Cost considerations – initial investment for equipment and feed
- Odor and noise – Potential for messiness or disturbances
- Seasonal challenges – Variability in egg production based on climate
- Local regulations – Zoning laws may limit backyard chicken keeping
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Betterway Home |
| Publication Date | August 29, 2011 |
| Edition | First Edition |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 192 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1440316961 |
| Item Weight | 1.08 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8 x 0.6 x 8 inches |
| Customer Reviews | 4.3 out of 5 stars (69 ratings) |
Embrace a New Era
When it comes to managing a backyard chicken flock and grilling with ease, the right tools make all the difference. While guides like Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens and Chickens in Your Backyard provide essential knowledge, Lil’Clucker Waterer Cups ensure hydration without hassle, and Backyard Chickens’ Guide to Coops and Tractors offers practical solutions for housing. Yet, the standout contender in efficiency is the Renook Grill Mat Set-its non-stick design, reusability, and grease-cutting performance save time, money, and effort, proving that even the smallest details can transform your backyard chicken journey into a seamless experience.
Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens, 3rd Edition: Care, Feeding, Facilities
Expert advice on care, feeding, and facilities for raising backyard chickens.
Lil’Clucker Large Automatic Chicken Waterer Cups
Automatic waterers for chicks, ducks, geese, turkeys, and bunnies, ensuring consistent hydration.
Chickens in Your backyard,Newly Revised and Updated: A Beginner’s Guide
Beginner-friendly guidance for starting a backyard flock,including coops and tractors.
Renook Grill Mat Set of 6-100% Non-Stick reusable Mats
Non-stick, reusable mats that simplify cleaning and reduce grease buildup for all grilling methods.
Backyard Chickens’ Guide to Coops and Tractors: Planning, Building, and Real-Life Advice
Real-life plans and photos for custom coops and tractors, tailored for backyard chicken enthusiasts.

