Bringing Home New Chicks (And What It’s Really Like Raising Backyard Chickens)
Meet the OG Flock
Our first batch came from a reputable breeder who guarantees hens (not surprise roosters), and they’ve all been super healthy. We’ve got a great mix of breeds, and I could sit and watch them for hours. Chickens are hilarious—especially when they chase bugs or do that dinosaur-style power walk across the yard.
We’ve only had one casualty (my fault—I didn’t secure the door one night, and something took off with her), and one dramatic recovery after an attack. That girl had a gash, but with some extra love and a lot of Neosporin, she healed up and is still going strong.
And Then… We Brought Home More
Fast-forward to Mother’s Day this year. A simple trip to Tractor Supply turned into “just going to look” and, of course, we came home with four new chicks. We’re actually looking for a rooster and knew the bins are notorious for sneaking them in, so we’re open to seeing how this batch turns out.
We’ve got a mix of breeds again, including a couple of bantams, and I’m excited to see how they grow up—tiny chickens with big personalities? Yes, please.
Raising Chicks in the Laundry Room: The Messy Truth
Here’s the part no one warns you about: chicks are loud. And messy. And chaotic. They kicked bedding everywhere. The dust was next-level. And somehow, even in their little brooder, they still found ways to act like full-grown chickens.
They were scratching at the ground for bugs like it was instinct. No one taught them. They just knew.
They stayed in a kennel in the laundry room for a few weeks before they were old enough (and big enough) to move out to the big coop. They’re teenagers now—awkward, fluffy, a little rebellious—and just figuring out their place in the pecking order.
Integrating Them Into the Flock
We moved them out recently, and it’s been a process. Chickens have opinions and a clear pecking order, so we’ve been watching closely to make sure things stay peaceful(ish).
There’s been the usual chest bumping and side-eye from the older girls, but overall, it’s going better than expected. The little bantams are scrappy. I respect it.
What I’ve Learned So Far
The biggest surprise? How easy chickens actually are. I wish someone had told me that sooner.
I set up big containers for food and water, so I’m not out there refilling them every day. They free-range, they put themselves to bed, they eat bugs, and they give us eggs. It’s the most low-maintenance source of joy I didn’t know I needed.
And now, when I’m tired or in a bad mood, my husband will say, “Do you need to go sit with your chickens?” And you know what? He’s right.
Thinking of Starting Your Own Flock?
Do it. Seriously. Whether you’re in it for the eggs, the entertainment, or just the excuse to build a tiny coop with a fake front porch (no judgment), chickens are worth it.
Start small. Secure your coop. Be prepared for dust and a few surprises. But also—get ready to fall in love with the weird little creatures scratching around your backyard.
And if you ever find yourself saying, “I could never do that,” just remember: I raised 15 chicks so far in my laundry room and still liked them afterward.
