Combs and wattles on chickens can be a big problem since extreme coldness can cause frostbites. Rubbing Vasoline regularly can be a big help to alleviate this particular problem. You can also resort to "dubbing", which is the process of removing these extra appendages, in the means to fully remove the possibilities of frostbites and the complications that go with it. Some owners spend up to $300 by purchasing a ready-made chicken coop, but keep in mind that you don't really have to spend that much if you are aware of all the important elements that a fully functioning coop requires. More often than not, you can get everything that you need in your own house! Before you start building, it is advisable to do a sketch out of your design on a piece of paper. There is no difference in composition and nutrients present. The difference only lies in the manner of fineness and coarseness of the feed. Chicken eats most food and it is good to let them roam around for variety. Chickens should also be fed grits, as they would need this for digestion to prevent having a sour crop. You get a regular supply of eggs for food, not to mention that their manure has proven to be one of the cheapest and most effective organic fertilizers around. Chickens are also very potent when it comes to getting rid of pests in the garden. It is important that you familiarize yourself with some facts and general guidelines in raising chickens before making a decision. In place of the mother hen, that provides the heat by gathering them under the wings, you will need a lamp as their source of heat. You will also want a place to keep them. Young chicks would fit well in a shoebox or something similar so long as there are small openings for ventilation. Stuff the box with paper towels, as they are easier to replace daily. Another worry considered seriously is the chicken actually starving because the feeding failed in one way or the other. No. In fact it is not. Chicken may be very low maintenance birds but they have survived longer than us and their population is several hundred folds over ours. True they are prone to diseases and pests but their population is a testament that chickens are survivors.