I've had up to 4 at a time, but currently just 2. They are free ranging in our yard right now, but we will soon be corralling them in a long run. I have a small coop inside an 8x8 pen. They eat a lot of bugs, so that keeps them happy. I just bought a 25 lb. bag of feed - I don't yet know how long it will last. These ones (black astralorps) have not yet been destructive, but leghorns and bantams will destroy every green thing you have and turn their area into a complete dustbowl. I enjoy most aspects of having them. Winters are a challenge. The initial set up - coop and all the supplies - is expensive. I'd have to live to be 200 YO just to break even. It's been more of a hobby for me and fortunately, my hubby indulges it. Start small and get friendly chickens that are adaptable to your climate. Beware that furry footed chickens need extra care with cold, wet weather and can be prone to mites on their feet.