This exhaustively researched, clearly written, and profusely illustrated book is the essential volume on backyard chicken keeping

Chickens are many things: a source of meat and eggs, amusing images in pop culture, lovable pets, and a source of comfort at the end of a hard day. Whether you’re considering joining the growing flock of backyard chicken keepers or simply inspired by leafing through images of gorgeous hens and roosters, this book is a must. A majority of the 150 most-populated US cities allow backyard chickens, and during the pandemic, the backyard chicken trend surged. Online searches for chick supplies are off the charts, with local hatcheries recording a 500 percent increase in demand, as people look to reduce environmental impact, improve food traceability, connect with nature, or simply relish the pure joy of chicken company.

The Backyard Chicken Keeper’s Bible is the fourth title in this stunning and engaging series from Abrams and is the perfect homestead companion to The Beekeeper’s Bible. It is packed with everything you need to fully embrace a new chicken-keeping lifestyle. A sumptuous aesthetic is paired with practical tips on identifying backyard breeds and supporting good chicken health, ranging from basic brooding to common ailments. Learn what the best backyard breed is for you and the equipment needed to start your own home flock. Discover the soft cuddliness of a Bantam Silkie, the superb egg-sitting skills of a Plymouth Rock, the best method for constructing a chicken run, and how to keep your chickens happy and thriving—all in this beautiful, illustrated gift book.

Jessica Ford is the chicken and homestead contributor to Home, Garden and Homestead—an online guide to creating an independent, healthy, and sustainable homestead lifestyle. She lives in Colorado Springs with her husband, two children, and a small flock of chickens. Sonya Patel Ellis is a writer, editor, and artist exploring the botanical world and the interconnectedness of nature and culture. Her books include The Birdwatcher’s Bible, The Botanical Bible, The Heritage Herbal, and Nature Tales: Encounters with Britain’s Wildlife. She lives in London. Rachel Federman is a writer, environmental activist, and nonprofit consultant who has written more than 20 nonfiction books for adults and children, including The Mindful Gardener, in conjunction with the New York Botanical Gardens, and Test Your Dog’s IQ. She lives in New York City.