Chickens are social creatures, and when they are happy in their home they will want to be close to their owners and each other. Of course, the more that they are handled and the more interaction they receive, the more familiar and comfortable they will be around people. Choosing to get them as chicks and then caring for them and playing with them as they grow is a great way to establish a happy relationship with them. Chickens are curious creatures and will often peck at anything shiny, they like to dig around in the dirt and often take dirt baths. It can be quite a comical sight to watch chickens as they play in the dirt, explore the backyard and interact with one another. Baby chicks are some of the cutest baby animals. They may poop in your hands a bunch, but they have been known to cuddle up with people, similar to how they may snuggle with a mother hen who provides warmth. Baby chicks will require some extra care and should be housed indoors, if they are outside they will be easy picking for any predators around. There will be a separate section on specific requirements for caring for chicks, and other options if chicks are not desired. Chickens originated from Asia, and used to lay about 12 eggs a year. There are now some specific American breeds producing 200 plus eggs a year, and through selective breeding there are many different dual purpose options available as a backyard chicken. Depending on the main purpose for having chickens this book will go about how to select the chicken breed that will accomplish the desired goal. Although, the main focus of this guide will be on egg production, this book will explain the basics of getting a backyard flock ready. There isn't a lot of expertise required to raise a flock of chickens, which is why this guide is all that's needed to get started collecting fresh eggs. Another great resource is a local feed store. There will be people there that can help if there are specific questions not answered here. Otherwise, welcome, get ready for an adventure, and keep reading to start a backyard flock.