Backyard Chickens 101

BACKYARD CHICKENS 101
What To Know Before Getting Chicks

Date: Sunday, February 1 (Snow date: Sunday, February 8)
(Registration fees are non-refundable unless both dates are canceled due to weather)
Time: 2:00-3:30pm
Cost: $20 per person
Ages: 12 and older (all children must be accompanied by an adult)
Limit: 50
Location: CVH Animal Sanctuary, 8 Commerce Road, Newtown (Catherine’s Learning Barn)

*For the safety and comfort for all, no pets are allowed.

Dreaming of collecting fresh eggs from your very own flock but not sure where to begin? Join Sandy Schill for this fun and informative class that will guide you through everything you need to know before bringing home those adorable baby chicks.

Learn the key considerations for starting your humane farm, including how to choose the right breeds, determine the best location and size for your coop and run, and keep your chickens safe from predators. Sandy will also cover essential topics like caring for chicks, necessary supplies, biosecurity, and even the realities of “chicken math” — because one or two often leads to a few more!

Topics include:
• Local zoning laws
• Coop and run placement and sizing requirements
• Predator proofing
• Popular breeds and flock size
• Chick care essentials
• Supplies you’ll need
• Biosecurity best practices

Whether you’re just beginning or still in the dreaming stage, this class will help you start your backyard chicken adventure with confidence!

Sandy Schill, Instructor

Since May 2020, Sandy Schill has been on an adventure as a backyard chicken keeper, seeking a more humane and healthier source of eggs for her family. With no prior experience, she and her husband jumped into chicken keeping with the help of a knowledgeable family member. What began as a leap into the unknown quickly turned into a passion project, with each chicken teaching her something new. From treating bumblefoot to dealing with mice, there is never a dull moment. Today, their flock of nine hens is more than just a source of fresh eggs—it’s a quirky, beloved crew of feathered companions. Each hen has a name and personality. Whether it’s morning greetings at the coop, free-ranging in the yard, or sharing garden scraps, Sandy treats her chickens like cherished pets.