Raising chickens is a rewarding experience that can provide fresh eggs and companionship. Whether you’re a rural homesteader or an urban dweller, raising chickens has become a popular hobby for many. Yosha Snyder Group REALTOR® Margo Fox recently decided to home on the chicken train with her husband. He grew up with chickens and had familiarity with how to raise them. However, before starting, it’s important to check your local regulations and any homeowners’ association (HOA) rules to ensure you’re allowed to keep chickens. Here’s a guide from the Yosha Snyder Group (the “we’re more than just real estate professionals people–we also own chickens” people) how to get started, especially if you’re considering raising egg-laying chickens.
How to Start Raising Chickens
The first step in raising chickens is deciding whether you want to start with chicks or older chickens. Raising chickens from chicks is more involved but can be highly rewarding as you’ll bond with them early. To raise chickens from chicks, you’ll need a brooder, heat lamp, and starter feed. As they grow, you can transition them to a chicken coop and adult feed.
How to Start a Chicken Coop
Building or buying a chicken coop is crucial for keeping your flock safe. A proper coop provides protection from predators and harsh weather, especially during winter. Ensure your coop has good ventilation, a safe area to roam (if free-range chickens are your goal), and nesting boxes for egg-laying hens. Each nesting box should comfortably accommodate around 3-4 chickens, providing a quiet, dark space for them to lay eggs. You can also find coops that might fit your needs on Etsy. Just have some friends handy to help you build it.
Choosing Chicken Breeds
Selecting the right chicken breed depends on your goals. If you want a steady supply of eggs, choose breeds known for egg production, like Leghorns or Rhode Island Reds. For a dual-purpose bird, Orpingtons are a good choice, as they are raised for both eggs and meat. If you’re looking for chickens as pets, breeds like Silkies are known for their docile nature and unique appearance. Researching the characteristics of different chicken breeds will help you make the right choice. Margo Fox is a fan of Agrarian, a local homestead supply store.
Raising Chickens for Eggs
If you’re raising chickens for eggs, breed selection matters. Some chicken breeds, such as Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds, are prolific egg layers. On average, egg-laying chickens lay eggs every 24-26 hours, which amounts to about 5-6 eggs per week for a healthy hen. Keep in mind that chickens lay fewer eggs in winter due to the shorter daylight hours. You can encourage continued egg production with artificial lighting, but too much can stress the chickens.
How Much Does It Cost to Raise Chickens?
The cost of raising chickens depends on the number of chickens you raise, the type of feed, and whether you start with chicks or adult birds. The initial setup for a small flock (3-4 chickens) can cost around $500 for supplies like the coop, feeders, waterers, and brooder. After that, monthly costs for feed, bedding, and other essentials typically range from $15-25. HOA regulations might also require you to invest in certain types of coops or fencing, adding to the costs.
Chickens in Urban Areas
Urban chickens have become more common as cities relax regulations on keeping small flocks. However, if you live in an HOA-governed community, you may need to comply with additional restrictions, such as coop placement and the number of birds allowed. Some HOAs prohibit chickens outright, while others allow them but with strict limitations. Chickens can also be considered pets, providing companionship in urban settings while supplying fresh eggs.
HOA Rules About Chickens
Before starting, always check your HOA rules. Some HOAs have specific restrictions regarding keeping chickens, especially in urban or suburban areas. These rules can dictate the number of chickens you’re allowed to keep, where the coop can be placed, noise restrictions (often prohibiting roosters), and even whether chickens are allowed at all. Violating HOA rules can lead to fines or even legal action, so it’s essential to obtain written approval before setting up your flock. Be prepared to address concerns about noise, odor, and cleanliness with your neighbors and HOA board.
Free-Range Chickens vs. Confined Chickens
Free-range chickens have the benefit of foraging for food, which can improve egg quality, but they also need secure outdoor spaces to protect them from predators. Confined chickens, on the other hand, live full-time in a coop and run, which is easier to manage in small or urban spaces but requires more attention to their diet. Some HOAs may require that chickens be confined rather than free-range, particularly if homes are close together.
Chickens in Winter
In colder climates, special care is needed to keep chickens healthy during winter. A well-insulated coop, fresh water that doesn’t freeze, and proper ventilation are essential. Bedding materials like straw help insulate the coop and keep it dry. Chickens naturally generate heat, so avoid over-insulating, as this can cause moisture buildup. Providing extra feed helps chickens maintain energy levels in the cold.
Tips for Setting up a Chicken Coop
- Provide Adequate Space: Ensure at least 4 square feet of secure space per chicken inside the coop for comfort and to reduce stress.
- Proper Ventilation: Ventilate the coop without drafts to maintain airflow, prevent moisture buildup, and keep the chickens healthy.
- Choose the Right Breed: Select breeds based on climate, temperament, and purpose—egg-laying, meat, or companionship.
- Balanced Diet & Fresh Water: Offer a balanced feed appropriate for the chicken’s age and purpose, and ensure access to clean water at all times.
- Brood Chicks Safely: If raising chicks, maintain a brooder temperature of 95°F for the first week, gradually lowering it until they’re fully feathered.
- Routine Egg Collection: Collect eggs daily to prevent breakage, discourage pests, and maintain consistent laying habits.
- Keep the Coop Clean: Regularly clean the coop to control odor, prevent disease, and keep chickens healthy.
- Winter Care: In cold weather, insulate the coop, provide extra bedding, and prevent water from freezing without overheating the space.
- Neighbor-Friendly Practices: Maintain cleanliness, avoid noisy roosters, and place the coop discreetly to keep good relations with neighbors.
Raising chickens, whether for eggs, companionship, or both, can be a fulfilling experience. However, it’s critical to be aware of local regulations and HOA rules that might affect your ability to raise them. With proper care, a well-built coop, and attention to seasonal needs, chickens can thrive in a variety of settings, from rural farms to urban backyards. Like the Fox family, before you know it, you’ll be chasing chickens and hunting for eggs.