Originally Posted by piggybaker

could anyone who has them give me some advice, I have a large garden and have more than enough room for chickens,

BUT,

Do they smell?

They do if they are not kept clean. Cleaning the droppings up daily will help with this, but they are still not smell free. But don't smell much if you keep on top of things


Do I have to cut their wings (cringe)
If they can fly then yes. But it is not that bad nor painful for the bird. I started clipping my birds wings, but haven't done it since the last moult as mine have showed no attempt at leaving, they like their pad too much lol


What sort of vet trips are needed, do they need routin check ups,,

No but you will need to seek medical help if they become ill. Every thing else can be done at home with over the counter medicines and or suppliments to prevent diseases and illness etc. Also your birds should have been vaccinated before you bring them home by the breeder/ supplier
Can you get hens that don't lay eggs??? (strange question i know)
Erm Cockerills and old ladies. But don't worry surplus eggs will not go to waste. I have a waiting list for mine


Can you just keep one?
No they are flock animals. It is reccommended that no less than 3 are kept, as if anything happens to one then there is still 2 birds


Emma