Anyone who’s gone to the store lately knows that egg prices have gone through the roof. Now, we’ve all heard the reasons why (bird flu, price of feed has gone up, transport cost, etc.). However, this has led to yet another call for people to start getting chickens as a way to combat the price increase. For some, this might work. However, for the majority of people, it will definitely “NOT!”
Please don’t get me wrong, owning chickens can be a very rewarding experience, once again, for some. Having once owned chickens for several years, I can honestly say that I don’t regret the experience. It came with a big learning curve though, one that most people won’t be willing to experience. So, with that in mind, here are 3 reasons why this most likely won’t end well for anyone considering getting a household flock.
- It’s a nationwide shortage for a reason: Bird flu is thought to have impacted commercial flocks as wild bird populations migrated. So, once as they flew south, and then again as they made their way back up north. If the professional bird keepers couldn’t keep it out, what’s the likelihood that you can? Backyard flocks can, and do, get culled due to infection. (If you don’t know what culled is, google it, and then don’t get chickens)
- It’s not going to work the way you think it will: People often think that owning chickens will result in a ton of eggs overnight. News alert….it doesn’t! Depending on the breed you get, and their age. they may not produce for several months. Adding to that timeframe is the season. Especially in colder climates, the shorter days will cause lower, if not a completely stopped, egg production output. You might wind up spending more on feed and upkeep than you would have on store bought eggs.
- It’s not going to be as easy as you think either: If you’re envisioning a backyard inhabited by your low/no maintenance chickens, well get over it 😂. If you’re chickens are to thrive they’ll need 1) A safe, clean, and warm place to sleep (which you’ll have to build or buy). 2) They’ll need good feed (yes, they’ll eat bugs, and even some kitchen scraps, but you’re still going to have to feed them chicken feed Every Day!) 3) They’ll also need health care. Although chickens are pretty sturdy creatures, they do get injured and sick. You’re gonna have to cover the cost if things go wrong. All this can make homegrown eggs mighty expensive. Failure to dona good job with this care routine will mean your chickens will suffer, and that’s not fair to them.
- Bonus: Your yard will suddenly become a predator magnet. Coyotes, birds of prey, and even insects are all going to be interested in eating your birds. As their keeper, it’s up to you to make sure they don’t get a chance to succeed. This often proves to be very problematic, and sadly heartbreaking when it doesn’t work, especially if you have children.
Please consider thoroughly before bringing chickens, or any animal, into your life. The time and expenses shouldn’t be trivialized.
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