Home / Tools / Backyard Chickens Starter ChecklistBackyard Chickens Starter ChecklistBuild and predator-proof before the birds arrive. Ticks are saved in this browser.Print checklist0 of 16 doneResetBefore buying chickensCheck local rules, HOA rules and rooster restrictionsDecide how many hens you can houseFind a vet or experienced keeper nearbyCoop and runCoop with enough space per henSee: Best Chicken Coops for Backyard Flocks →Roost bars higher than nest boxesSee: Best Roosting Bars and Chicken Perches →Nest boxes, about one per three to four hensSee: Best Nesting Boxes for Chickens →Ventilation near the roof without drafts on roostsSee: Best Coop Windows and Vents →BeddingSee: Best Coop Bedding for Chickens →Predator proofingHardware cloth on openingsSee: Best Hardware Cloth for Chicken Coops and Runs →Apron against diggingSee: Best Coop Aprons and Anti-Dig Skirts for Runs →Predator-proof latchesSee: Best Coop Locks and Latches That Raccoons Cannot Open →Automatic door or a nightly close-up routineSee: Best Automatic Chicken Coop Doors →Food and waterFeeder that limits waste and rodentsSee: Best No-Waste Chicken Feeders →Waterer, heated in freezing climatesSee: Best Chicken Waterers →Layer feed, grit and oyster shellSee: Best Grit and Oyster Shell Feeders →Rodent-proof feed storageSee: Best Chicken Feed Storage Containers →