Thank you for the warm welcome! I live in the Stockton area.
I have 3 chickens, 2 hens & 1 pullet.
Made lots of beginners mistakes
DH built my coop & run for me on a dirt floor:
then realized it was below the rest of the area's level and had to raise it. We didn't level the ground because I was impatient
and it caused a ripple effect of issues. So, lesson was learned but I am quite happy with it.
Initially had 6 chicks and 2 ducklings that free-range the backyard but, with a pool and a small coop, it wasn't enough space. Gave my mom the ducks and 2 chickens (a cockerel and pullet). 1 pullet died from my huskies - my fault for not better protecting the barrier. Another lesson learned.
I use mini-shavings for the coop, and a combination of shavings and dried leaves from the yard in the run and they free-range half the backyard.
I'm originally from the sister site BYC 
decided to join, and hopefully learn more about caring for my plants.
I also found BYC first. I love that they have all these sister sites!
