Springtime & backyard chickens: a fresh start for your flock

Spring is finally here! The days are getting longer, the grass is getting greener, and your chickens? They’re ready to party. After a long, sleepy winter, your backyard flock is stretching its wings, fluffing its feathers, and preparing for a season full of scratching, pecking, and egg-laying.

Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or new to the backyard coop life, spring is the perfect time to refresh, reset, and reconnect with your birds. Let’s talk about what makes this season so special—and how to make the most of it.

🌼 Why Spring is Cluckin’ Wonderful

Warmer weather and more daylight are basically a double espresso shot for chickens. Sunlight triggers their egg-laying hormones, so even the laziest winter freeloaders will likely start pulling their weight again. You’ll probably notice a big bump in egg production—time to dust off that egg basket!

And if you’ve been dreaming of raising chicks, spring is the golden window. Temperatures are milder, making it easier to brood babies without running your electric bill through the roof. Plus, the bugs are back—and that means easy, protein-rich snacks your chickens will go bonkers for.

🐣 Your Spring Chicken Checklist

Time to roll up your sleeves! Here’s how to prep your flock for the sunny season ahead:

1. Coop Deep Clean

Let’s face it: winter’s been messy. Moisture, droppings, and dust can build up fast when the weather’s cold and your birds are cooped up (literally). A thorough spring clean makes everything fresh and healthier:

• Remove all old bedding and give the coop a good scrub-down.
• Air it out and disinfect floors, roosts, and nesting boxes.
• Check for mold, leaks, or weak spots in the structure—especially after heavy snow or rain.

2. Health Check: From Beak to Butt

Spring is the best time for a flock check-up. Grab a chicken (gently!) and do a quick head-to-toe inspection:

• Eyes should be clear and bright, with no crust or discharge.
• Comb and wattles should be vibrant red—not pale or dry.
• Check for mites and lice! Look around the vent, under the wings, and near the base of feathers. If you spot tiny crawlers or eggs stuck to feather shafts, it’s time to treat.
• Observe behavior: Are they active and perky, or sluggish and puffed up? Trust your instincts—chickens are subtle, but they’ll show you when something’s off.

3. Feed Refresh

As your birds start foraging again, you can lighten up their winter rations. Swap out calorie-dense scratch grains for a balanced layer feed, and treat them to fresh greens, veggie scraps, and the occasional mealworm buffet. Spring is a great time to introduce probiotics, apple cider vinegar in the water, or a few garlic cloves for immune support.

4. New Chicks? Yes, Please!

Thinking of growing your flock? Spring chicks are a joy. You’ll need:

• A warm brooder with a heat lamp (about 95°F for the first week, then lower by 5°F weekly).
• Chick starter feed with added nutrients.
• Plenty of patience. They’re adorable, messy, and endlessly entertaining.

Once your babies are fully feathered (6–8 weeks), begin slowly introducing them to the older hens. Use a “look but don’t touch” method—think chicken speed-dating through a fence—for a smooth transition.

5. Get Ready for the Egg Boom

Spring = eggs. Lots of them. Make sure your nesting boxes are cozy, clean, and accessible. Keep fake eggs or golf balls in boxes to encourage laying in the right spots. Collect real eggs daily to keep them clean and discourage any accidental egg-eating habits.

🐓 Spring Fun: Keep Chickens Happy & Busy

Spring isn’t just about chores—it’s also the season for fun! Keep your flock active and curious with a few extras:

• Hang a cabbage head or lettuce ball for pecking playtime.
• Add a dust bath zone with dry dirt, sand, and a little diatomaceous earth.
• Build simple perches or ramps for some backyard chicken fun!

🌞 Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about spring in the chicken yard—the fresh air, the fluffy chicks, and the satisfying rhythm of eggs hitting the nesting box. With a little love and attention, your flock will thrive, your coop will shine, and your mornings will be filled with happy clucks and fresh eggs.

So go on—lace up those boots, grab a rake, and say hello to your chickens. They’ve missed you.