Have you ever wanted to raise chickens in your backyard?! Here are a few reasons why I think you should!!
Fresh Eggs
High-Quality Eggs – When you raise your own chickens they typically produce eggs that are fresher and more nutritious than store-bought eggs. They can have richer yolks and better flavor due since they are being fed a wider range of food and they are generally more happy!
Control Over Diet – By feeding your chickens a healthy diet, you can be confident that the eggs they produce are the highest quality possible, free from chemicals and additives often found in commercial feeds.
Sustainability
Reduced Carbon Footprint – When you raise chickens at home, you cut down on the environmental impact of transporting eggs from large commercial farms to stores. This helps reduce your overall carbon footprint.
Composting – Chicken manure is an great source of nitrogen, making it a great addition to your compost pile. Properly composted chicken manure can enhance the fertility of your garden soil, resulting in a beautiful, abundant garden.
Education
Learning Experience: Raising chickens teaches children and adults like us about animal care, responsibility, and the life cycle of birds. It can be an engaging, hands-on way to learn about where our food comes from and how to raise animals.
Connection to Food Sources – As I mentioned above, it fosters an understanding of where food comes from, promoting more thoughtful and sustainable eating habits for the whole family.
Pest Control
Chickens are natural foragers and will eat a variety of insects, including ticks, beetles, and other pests that can harm your garden or yard. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides.
Keep watch on your chickens in the garden though, they can quickly destroy a garden with their dust bathing and foraging!
Community Building
Raising chickens can connect you with others who share similar interests. Many communities have local groups or online forums where chicken owners exchange tips and experiences.
Excess eggs, manure, and even chicks can be traded with neighbors or at local markets, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.