Urban chickens

The Northern Nevada Poultry Fanciers Association has about 20 members who raise chickens in their neighborhoods alongside traditional household pets and wildlife. They also mentor children who show poultry in area 4-H competitions.

"The whole chicken thing is so much fun because it's different than what anybody else is doing," said Ren?e Lauderback of Reno, who began raising chickens with her husband three years ago at their home near Virginia Lake Park.

Lauderback has three chickens: Bubu, Marie-Louise and Spotty.

"Not only do we get amusement, they're fun to watch," Lauderback said.

Club treasurer D.D. Monroe said the group started in early 2003 after organizers heard about similar groups in California through 4-H clubs there.

Monroe, who lives in Virginia City Highlands, said some fanciers association members have had chickens killed by coyotes and neighborhood dogs. Other animals that attack chickens include hawks, raccoons, cats and squirrels, Monroe said.

Covering a chicken pen also is something people could consider because sometimes, a wild animal could dig a hole in the ground to make its way into the pen, which Monroe said could mean injured chickens and stolen eggs.

The group is planning to be present at the Nevada State Fair and is trying to arrange a "chicken swap" this fall. Several club members have children in 4-H, but all members help put on shows and clinics designed to prime the birds for competitions.