Backyard Chickens

With all the what ifs in the world today, I knew I wanted to do more and be better prepared.  But where to start?

For me, Cincinnati Homestead Mom I wanted to start with a reliable food source.  Growing and raising some of our own food would be a huge step in the right direction.

After reading some blogs, doing online research, asking a lot of questions, and convincing my husband it was a good idea, we decided to start with chickens.

Chickens? Really?

Yes, Chickens.  (I never thought I would have chickens)

Raising a small flock of chickens in the backyard has a ton of benefits.  They will supply us with fresh eggs that are more nutritious than those bought at the store, and cleaning out the coop gives us great fertilizer for the garden.  Not to mention the companionship and entertainment.

My son loves our chickens.  If he is outside, it's a safe bet that he will have one of the chickens under his arm.  In fact, he wants to have his Birthday Party at home this year.  When I asked why, he was quick to answer that he wanted his chickens to be able to be at his party and they weren't aloud to go other places.  My boy and his chickens

Even I enjoy having those little peckers around.  It is truly comical watching them strut around the yard, pecking and scratching.  And watching them take a dust bath you'll soon realize they are both graceful and awkward.

Currently we have 3 chickens and get about a dozen and a half eggs a week, which is plenty for our family.  At one point last year we had 9 hens and I was getting more eggs than I knew what to do with.  Luckily friends and family are always eager to take a dozen or two when I have extra.

Here are a few things you should consider before you get your first chickens.

• Cost  Normally the biggest expense is in the beginning.  Our initial cost was around $500.  Building material for the coop, feeders, food, bedding, and the baby chicks add up fast.  Then it doesn't stop after that, you will be buying food and bedding on a regular basis.  And an occasional trip to the vet or medications may be needed.
• Space  While chickens don't require a ton of space, you will need room for the coop and run.  You will want something with shade for the summer, and something that will protect them from the elements. 
• Time  Chickens are fairly low maintenance, however you still have to feed, water, and collect eggs daily.  (sometimes 2 or 3 times a day)  Then cleaning the coop and frequency of cleanings will depend on the number and breed of chickens you have.  This could be weekly or monthly.
• Noise  Both roosters and hens can be noisy.  Roosters don't only crow when the sun comes up, some roosters will crow all day long.  This depends on the breed and the individual chicken itself.  (some roosters are just cocky and like to hear themselves crow)  While hens have a call they make before and or after laying an egg.  My girls are quite loud with their little song.  (they are very proud of their self when they lay an egg)
• Laws, Zoning,  and Restrictions  There are many cities and suburbs where chickens are not aloud to be kept.  Sometimes a permit is needed to build the coop.  And some areas may have restrictions on having roosters or limiting the number of birds you may have.  Please check into this for your local area.

For this Cincinnati Homestead Mom, I couldn't be happier with our decision to start a backyard flock.  Knowing that part of our food source is not dependant on the modern supply chain, and my son learning where food comes from is priceless.  With every egg I collect, I feel a since of pride.  Simple and more Self Reliant.

Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think.

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