Backyard chickens have become increasingly popular for good reason! Whether you’re homesteading, want fresh food, or just enjoy their personalities, there are many benefits to keeping a small flock.

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Freshly laid eggs have richer yolks, firmer whites, and superior flavor.  Eggs from free-range chickens often have higher omega-3s, vitamin A, and vitamin E, and lower cholesterol. Perhaps more importantly, you know exactly what your chickens eat — no hidden additives or unknown conditions.

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True to the self-reliant lifestyle, fresh eggs are a sustainable food source.  They reduce reliance on industrial egg production and long supply chains.  For a more environmentally conscious approach... chickens can turn food scraps and weeds into a reliable source of protein, reducing kitchen waste and the manure can be composted into rich fertilizer for gardens — closing the loop to the  sustainable life cycle.

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Start-up costs of getting started can be as low as a few dollars or can be very expensive.  It all depends on you.   Initial setup costs (coop, feed, fencing) can be offset by using scraps or upcycling items you already have. Over time steady egg production can reduce grocery costs.  Home-produced eggs can also be bartered or sold locally.

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Chickens are also natural pest control. They love eating insects, ticks, beetles, and larvae, reducing pests in your yard.  They help manage insects, slugs and snails in gardens without chemicals.

 

The garden benefits from backyard chickens as well.  Their scratching and pecking help aerate soil and break down compost.  Aged chicken manure is an excellent organic fertilizer rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. They help recycle garden waste by eating trimmings and leftovers. 

 

Chickens are a great way for kids to learn about biology, responsibility, and food systems.  Raising chickens gives children hands-on lessons about nature and sustainability.

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Chickens each have distinct personalities — they can be friendly, curious, even affectionate.  Watching their behaviors can be relaxing and fun.  Many people describe them as low-maintenance pets with benefits.  Mental Health and Stress Relief are common benefits of raising chickens.  Caring for animals and working outdoors can reduce stress and anxiety.  Their daily rhythm and routine can be grounding and therapeutic.​

 

Breed Conservation and Stewardship is also an important factor in raising chickens.  Raising heritage breeds helps preserve genetic diversity and traditional livestock lines.  Backyard flocks support small-scale biodiversity, which industrial farming has reduced.