B.U.B.H. - pronounced "bub". The "H" is quiet; like our backyard hens.
FAQs Regarding Raising Backyard Hens
You asked ... We answered!
How can I get involved with changing the current city's ordinance to allow for hens to be backyard pets?
First, visit the Facebook page titled "City of Bakersfield Backyard Hens Initiative" and participate in their efforts. Second, share this message with your friends and social media connections. Feel free to direct them to this web page as a resource. Third, commit to communicating with your city council member in a respectful and persistent manner. Finally, educate yourself on the process of working with city council to change a city ordinance and become as knowledgeable about the urban backyard hen movement that is happening across our nation, in major urban cities, including Bakersfield.
Is a rooster needed for a hen to lay eggs?
No. Do not be embarrassed if you thought this was true. It is surprising how many people do. Roosters are only needed to fertilize the egg. Without a rooster, eggs will not hatch in to baby chicks. Roosters crow and make the noise that many people associate with when they say chickens are noisy. This is why our proposal excludes roosters - only hens.
How long do hens live?
As a general rule, hens live five (5) to ten (10) years. When hens have good housing, nutritious food and are allowed to express their natural behaviors they thrive in backyards and will bring years of joy, satisfaction and companionship to a family.
Why do the eggs of my flock vary in color?
Egg color is determined by the genetics of the hen. Let's clear up a myth: brown eggs are not healthier than white eggs. Nutritious value of eggs have more to do with the quality of living conditions and feed. The real difference is not with the color of the shell, rather, the taste of a fresh egg when compared to a store purchased one. Their is no comparison!
How many and how often do hens produce an egg?
To fully answer this question you will need to research breeds, nutrition, light management, age and adequate space allowances. Two common backyard breeds are Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks. These are well rounded hens that do well in urban settings. Starting around six (6) months, somewhere between four (4) to six (6) eggs a week are produced by these breeds. It is a myth that hens stop laying at a certain age. Actually, they lay fewer and fewer eggs as they mature. A general rule is - productive egg laying for five (5) to seven (7) years.
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How much do hens cost?
This question really has two parts: How much does a chick cost? And, how much does it take to own chickens? You can organize your costs into the following categories: hens, feed, housing and maintenance. The hen house (known as a coop) or a hen-tractor (movable coop) is going to be the most costly. The younger the hen the less expensive, typically costing between $3 to $5. Expect to pay a little more if you want a sixth month old hen that is at the start of her egg laying career. There are specialty breeds that can be very expensive.
Are chickens really noisy?
The noises that hens make typically peak around 60-70 decibels at their loudest. This is approximately the same as a human conversation, a dishwasher and a dryer. The following are louder than hens as measured in decibels: lawnmowers, leaf blowers, a motorcycle, an aging air conditioner, children playing in a pool and a dog barking. Noise is probably the biggest and first concern someone will site in opposition to allowing urban backyard hens. The laying of an egg, also known as the "egg song", happens at most once a day and never at night. Hens, for their own survival instinct, want to be quiet so they do not draw attention from predators. Roosters are noisier. It is important to reassure people in opposition that we propose NO ROOSTERS because we agree with this concern.
What breeds of backyard chickens are best?
This question will be unique to each individual's reasons for wanting backyard hens. While some may want hens to be pets and are looking for a social, entertaining, companion that is part of the family. Others might be interested in the delicious eggs, food sustainability or connecting with their role in the food production cycle. I strongly recommend that you think through and fully evaluate your reasons for wanting to own backyard hens prior to selecting a breed so you match the two (breed and purpose) as best as possible. Two breeds that are well-rounded backyard hens are the Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks. These breeds can serve as a good starting place for your research.
How do I keep hens warm in the winter and cool during summer?
The good news is that hens are hardy birds. Our Bakersfield winters are mild in comparison to many places. Two things to consider with keeping hens warm enough in cold conditions are to minimize drafts and make sure your hens can roost. There really isn't a need to use heat lamps. Regarding keeping your hens cool during hot summer months, the most important factors are water and shade accessibility. You do not need a fan or misters. Ice in their water and frozen food treats work great.
Do hens carry diseases?
Unfortunately, just like dogs and cats, hens may become ill from different causes. There are a few categories of health concerns that should be taken seriously and addressed if needed. Responsible pet owners generally love and care for their animals and provide an environment that limits conditions to threats. This is true for the hen owner as well. With mindful precautions and proactive steps taken backyard hens can and most often do live a life of good health. Simple precaution to take are: wash hands after handling hens, store food in a secure container, limit exposure to wild animals and address any medical issue right away. To fully and adequately address this topic I recommend that you do your research. All pet owners have a responsibility to maintain a healthy quality of life experience for their animals.