Do it!!
I bought a ukulele 3 years ago and have enjoyed getting to know my instrument. I don't have chickens. So, I can't speak to what a chicken's reaction would be.
You do not have to be able to read music to play a uke, just a cord fingering chart and a little strumming gets you through a lot of songs. There's lots of good how to books available as you progress and gain skills.
If you can find a ukulele to play with as you're learning, it helps.
Good luck, and enjoy!
