Why Backyard Chickens Are on the Rise
With egg prices soaring over the past year, more people than ever are turning to backyard chickens as a way to take control of their food supply. What once seemed like a hobby for homesteaders and farm enthusiasts has now become a practical and cost-effective solution for families looking to save money and enjoy fresh, high-quality eggs. Inflation, supply chain issues, and disease outbreaks in commercial poultry farms have led to price spikes that leave consumers frustrated at the grocery store. While setting up a backyard flock does come with some upfront costs, many chicken owners find that the long-term savings make it a worthwhile investment. A basic coop, feeder, and heating lamp may cost a few hundred dollars, and the cost of feed varies depending on the number of chickens. However, after the initial setup, maintaining a flock can be far more affordable than constantly paying premium prices for store-bought eggs. Some owners even sell extra eggs to neighbors or local markets, offsetting their costs even further.
More Than Just Eggs: The Benefits of Raising Chickens
Beyond financial savings, raising chickens offers a variety of other benefits. Fresh eggs from backyard flocks are often richer in nutrients, with darker yolks and a better taste than mass-produced eggs. Chickens also provide natural pest control by eating insects, which can help gardeners keep their plants healthy without the need for chemical pesticides. Additionally, their waste serves as an excellent natural fertilizer, making them a great companion for anyone looking to maintain an organic garden. Many families enjoy the educational aspect of raising chickens, especially for children who get to learn about responsibility, animal care, and where their food comes from.
What to Know Before Raising Chickens: Shelter, Nutrition & Care
While the idea of raising backyard chickens is appealing, it comes with responsibilities. Chickens need proper shelter, nutrition, and health maintenance to thrive.
Building a Secure Coop
A well-designed coop is essential for protecting chickens from predators and providing a safe environment for laying eggs. Key features to include:
- Proper ventilation to prevent respiratory issues.
- Nest boxes for egg-laying (at least one per 3-4 hens).
- Roosting bars for sleeping, as chickens prefer to perch at night.
- Secure fencing to keep out wild animals and keep chickens in.
- Mobile coops (such as the ChickShaw design) allow for fresh grazing areas, promoting healthier chickens and better lawn maintenance.
Feeding & Nutrition
A healthy diet is crucial for egg production and overall well-being. Chickens typically consume about 1/4 to 1/3 pound of feed per day, with a protein content ranging from 12-20%. To ensure optimal health and strong eggshells:
- Provide layer feed with balanced nutrients.
- Supplement with oyster shells or crushed eggshells for added calcium.
- Allow free-ranging when possible for extra protein from bugs and grass.
Health & Natural Pest Control
Chickens are vulnerable to parasites such as mites and lice, which can cause stress, feather loss, and a drop in egg production. Dust baths are a natural way for chickens to keep pests at bay—ensure they have a dry, sandy area where they can roll in the dirt.
For added protection, many backyard chicken keepers rely on Premo Guard Poultry Spray. This non-toxic, plant-based solution effectively eliminates mites and lice without exposing chickens to harmful chemicals. Simply spraying the chickens and coop can prevent infestations and keep the flock healthy, stress-free, and productive.
Understanding the Molting Cycle
Each year, chickens go through a molting phase, where they shed old feathers and grow new ones. During this time, egg production may decrease. Providing extra protein (such as mealworms) can support regrowth and help chickens stay strong during this process.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breed
Picking the right breed depends on your climate, space, and egg production goals. Some popular backyard breeds include:
- Rhode Island Red – Hardy, great egg layers, adaptable to most climates.
- Leghorn – High egg production, active and independent.
- Buff Orpington – Friendly and calm, good for families with kids.
- Easter Egger – Produces colorful eggs, fun personality.
Before bringing home chickens, check local zoning laws to ensure backyard flocks are allowed. Some areas have restrictions on the number of chickens or prohibit roosters due to noise concerns.
Are Backyard Chickens Worth It?
At the end of the day, are backyard chickens worth it? For many people, the answer is a resounding yes. While there are responsibilities and challenges, the benefits of fresh, nutritious eggs, cost savings, and a more self-sufficient lifestyle make it a rewarding experience. With the right preparation and knowledge, raising chickens can be a practical and enjoyable way to take control of your food supply while enjoying all the other perks of backyard poultry ownership. And by using natural solutions like Premo Guard Poultry Spray, chicken owners can keep their flock healthy without exposing them to harmful chemicals—ensuring their investment in backyard chickens remains sustainable and stress-free.
A great in depth article to learn more here
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