Has the thought of backyard chickens crossed your mind? Backyard flocks have become one of the most popular new hobbies for individuals and families looking for a more sustainable lifestyle. I have had the pleasure of learning how to raise my own backyard flock over the past four months. I have four beautiful Ameraucana hens living in my backyard. I must say is that chickens are way more entertaining, fun, and a part of the family than I ever could have imagined. Now that I have had my chickens for a few months, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a chicken expert – maybe. Okay, not really. To this day I continue to use resources from Anythink, as well as many chicken forums to help me give my chickens the best life possible.

Here are a few resources to get your backyard flock started:

Beautiful Chickens: Portraits of Champion Breeds by Christie Aschwanden

This is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read about chickens. What may seem like just an index of chicken breeds, Beautiful Chickens has some of the most beautifully photographed birds you will ever see. The best thing about this book is that it gives an in-depth description of every chicken breed, which helps you to pick the best breed for your coop, climate and lifestyle. Worried your birds will not survive harsh Colorado winters? Worry no more! This book will help you find the perfect winter hardy bird for your flock.

The Chicken Whisperer's Guide to Keeping Chickens by Andy G. Schneider

I bought this book two years before I ever got my chickens and now it sits proudly on my shelf, as I've successfully kept my chickens alive for four months. This book will take you step-by-step through everything you will need to know about keeping chickens in your backyard. It will inspire you to successfully take on the rewarding task of owning chickens, whether you live in the city or a suburb. You will learn the tricks of the trade when it comes to building a coop small enough for your backyard, proper nutrition for your flock, and even incubation techniques if you choose to expand.

Chicken People 

This movie made me laugh, cry and every emotion inbetween. I had to include this movie as a resource because if you aren't considering a backyard flock, this movie might just change your mind. Chicken People follows three individuals through the year-long journey leading up to one of the most renowned chicken shows of the year. Each person's story tells of the healing and inspiration their flock has brought to their life, and the special place chickens hold in their families. You may not believe it now, but you will find yourself cheering for your favorite chickens in the end – and you will not be disappointed!