Are Backyard Chickens Right for You?
Considering Chickens as Pets
Before diving into chicken keeping, assess your fondness for these birds. If you and your family truly enjoy being around chickens, you're off to a promising start. However, if you're not enthusiastic about them, caring for chickens might become a chore rather than a pleasure.
Daily and Periodic Care
Chickens require daily attention, including feeding, watering, and egg collecting, which takes about 10 minutes a day. Additionally, plan for monthly maintenance and semi-annual tasks, which can take an hour and a few hours respectively. If this seems too much, chickens might not be suitable for you.
Space Requirements
Chickens need sufficient space to thrive. A coop should provide at least 10 square feet per bird if they don't have an outdoor area. If they can roam outdoors, the coop space can be reduced to 2 square feet per bird, but ensure they have at least 10 square feet per bird in the run. The more space they have, the healthier and happier they'll be, as they can forage and engage in natural behaviors.
Legal Considerations
Check local regulations before getting chickens. Some towns have specific rules regarding the keeping of chickens, including waste disposal and coop placement. If roosters are in your plans, be aware of noise regulations to avoid potential conflicts with neighbors.
Neighbors' Perspectives
Consider your neighbors' views on keeping chickens. Address any concerns about noise or smell early on and highlight the benefits, such as free fresh eggs. Gaining their support can also help with pet-sitting when you're away.
Financial Aspects
Raising chickens involves initial setup costs for the coop, supplies, and the birds, along with ongoing expenses for feed. These costs mean that backyard chickens won't necessarily save you money compared to buying eggs from the store.