When I first got my flock, I was worried that caring for chickens would be extremely expensive and not worth having them to provide eggs on a small scale for us, friends, and family. But, thankfully, I was wrong!
Us chicken tenders (pun intended) like to call the first egg we get from our hens the “thousand dollar egg” because many people have to spend about a thousand dollars getting everything they need for their chickens.
What all do chickens need?
Chickens are like us humans–they need food, water, and shelter. We got our coop from Tractor Supply for around $400. It’s small, but enough for the ladies to lay their eggs and sleep! For our run, we have a 9×9 dog kennel-like apparatus. We also covered the top to keep them from flying out and running loose in the yard. Plus it keeps them dry when it rains! If we had the space to free range during the day, we definitely would, but they are content with their little area right now. We buy feed from Tractor Supply at about $20 a bag. This lasts our 8 hens about a month.
How much time will I need to devote to my chickens?
Honestly, not very much, but this also depends on your flock size. Chickens are great at entertaining themselves. We usually clean out the coop and replace the wood shavings about once a month. This takes about an hour to complete. Refilling the food and water happens about twice a week and takes less than 10 minutes. Gathering eggs takes less than 5!
What about predators?
Predators in your area is something you need to consider if you decide you want chickens. We live in the city, and have had no problems with predators! If you have predators nearby, you will need to thoroughly research and plan how to build a safe coop and run for your chickens.
How many eggs will I get? And do I need a rooster for eggs?
Well, this depends on many different things such as the breed and age of your hens, what time of year it is, and if they are healthy!
We have a mixed flock of chickens and some do lay much more frequently than the others. Ours even continued laying all throughout the winter!
As for a rooster, you do not need one for your chickens to lay eggs! The main reasons to have a rooster are for flock protection and fertilizing eggs for chicks to hatch.
What can chickens eat?
Pretty much anything! One of my favorite things about having chickens is that I don’t feel too guilty when having to throw out produce, now. Our ladies take care of it for me! Ours love lettuce, watermelon, squash, apples, and bread. You definitely shouldn’t feed your chickens just scraps, but it’s nice to know they will take care of them when needed!
So….
If you are wanting to raise chickens, I say go for it! I absolutely love seeing my ladies each day. Mary Lou (yes, they’re all named) always calls to me when I come outside. While they may not be cuddly like a cat or dog, they are still adorable and fun to watch. Plus they actually pay rent, in eggs!
Roots of a Southern Kitchen 