What are the key tools Natasha Nicholes recommends for successful backyard chicken keeping?

Indoor setup for chicks: This includes an enclosure they can't escape from, a heat lamp, food, water, and bedding material. Kiddie pools are often used to contain the chicks.

Outdoor coop for pullets or adults: The coop should be secure from predators and moisture, and include food, water, nesting boxes, bedding, roosting areas, and entertainment. If you're in a cold climate, you might also need a heated water dish and possibly a heat lamp and coop lights.

Nesting boxes: These can be created from old crates and are where the chickens will lay their eggs.

Roosting areas: These can be made with long pieces of wood or old wooden ladders.

Entertainment: Ideas include feeding them your fruit and veggie scraps, hanging a cabbage tied to a rope, a mirror, and ladders to climb on.

Rake for waste removal: A good rake used only for the coop and a compost pile for the waste can help keep the coop clean.

Extra egg cartons: If you have a smaller family and 5-6 chickens, you might end up with extra eggs, so having additional egg cartons on hand for storage might be a good idea.