Embracing the World of Chickens on the Homestead
You might be wondering, why on earth did I decide to raise chickens? Four years ago, it wasn’t even on my radar. Fast forward to 2022, and I’ve got my own feathery friends clucking around. Why the sudden change? Well, let me share the egg-citing details of my journey into raising chickens and why it’s become an essential part of my family’s homesteading adventure.
Eggs in the Time of Bird Flu: A Practical Decision
In 2022, the US government’s culling of hundreds of thousands of chickens due to bird flu sent a clear signal—egg shortages were imminent. Anticipating the impact, I decided it was time to invest in our own flock. Now, you might think it was a spur-of-the-moment decision prompted by a casual conversation with my husband. While that played a role, my meticulous research indicated that chickens were not only the easiest farm animals to start with but also brought a plethora of benefits beyond just eggs.
Chickens: More Than Just Egg Layers
Chickens, apart from providing excellent eggs, turned out to be natural compost machines. Their poop became a valuable asset for our garden, creating a sustainable cycle. When egg prices soared, my family didn’t feel the pinch, and we even had extra eggs to share with friends and family. The perks of having our own chickens were becoming evident.
Common Questions About Raising Chickens
Now, you might be considering getting your own feathered companions. Here are some questions I had when I started, and what I discovered:
Where to Get Chickens?
You can purchase chicks from local feed stores or reputable online breeders. Keep in mind that chickens are social animals, and it’s advisable to buy at least four chicks.
Can Raising Chickens Become Addictive?
Surprisingly, yes! Once you experience the joys of having chickens, you might find yourself contemplating adding more to your flock. It’s an unexpected yet delightful consequence.
What’s the Cost?
The initial cost can vary, with the chicken coop being a significant investment. I opted for a reliable and easy-to-clean coop, which set me back a bit. Ongoing costs, like organic chicken feed, totaled around $30 a month. I’m also exploring making my own feed for cost efficiency.
The cost of raising chickens is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your budget. Personally, I opted for a middle-ground approach, considering factors like ease of care and the overall health of the chickens. The most substantial initial expense typically revolves around the chicken coop. A secure coop is essential, offering protection against various predators, including large birds and neighborhood dogs. In my quest, I sought a coop that not only facilitated easy cleaning but also provided a safe haven for my chickens, ensuring warmth during harsh below-zero temperatures and coolness on scorching 90+ degree days in the summer.
After extensive research, I found the Omlet chicken coop, and it has lived up to its positive reviews. Its design allows for effortless cleaning, even in winter, and provides year-round safety for my girls. Regarding startup costs, you can start as low as $100-200 or invest as much as you desire.
Can Everyone Have Chickens?
Not everyone, unfortunately. Research local regulations at the state, county, and city levels. While federal laws may exist, state laws can override them. In my case, no roosters are allowed in our township.
How Many Eggs Do Chickens Lay?
Typically, each chicken lays approximately one egg per day, and they commence laying around 18 weeks of age. Initially, the eggs are small, but over a few weeks, they will reach a regular size.
Do Chickens Lay Eggs All Year?
It varies based on whether you let your chickens lay eggs naturally. Their laying season aligns with the amount of sunlight they receive. As the days shorten, a chicken’s egg production slows down. If you find yourself with more eggs than you can consume in spring, summer, and fall, it’s advisable to preserve the surplus to ensure a steady supply through the winter. Learn how to preserve eggs in my blog post, here.
Chickens: Fun, Educational, and Worthwhile
Chickens have added a delightful dimension to our homesteading journey. Beyond the practical benefits, they’ve become a tool for teaching my kids about food appreciation and the importance of contributing to the household. So, if you’re considering taking the plunge into raising chickens, don’t be chicken—it’s worth it!