Here’s What You Need to Know
With egg prices continuing to fluctuate, many people are considering raising their own backyard flock. We’ve been asked a couple dozen times this year alone about how to raise laying hens. The idea of having fresh eggs daily is appealing. But, before you commit to bringing home a batch of fluffy chicks, you should consider several important factors. Raising chickens is rewarding, but it also requires time, effort, and a nice financial investment. Here’s what you need to know before making the leap.
1. Chicks Require More Than Just a Coop
Many first-time chicken keepers assume they can buy chicks and place them straight into a coop. In reality, baby chicks need a brooder—a warm, secure space with proper bedding, food, and water. A heat source is essential to keep chicks warm. You can use a heat lamp or a safer radiant heat plate. This is especially important in the first few weeks. Without proper warmth, chicks can quickly become sick and die.
We use a brooder in our barn. The brooder is really, REALLY warm. Baby chicks need a temperature of around 95 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week of their lives. You have to gradually decrease the temperature by about 5 degrees each week as they grow older. A one-week-old chick might need 90 degrees. A two-week-old chick might need 85 degrees. Continue adjusting the temperature until they’re fully feathered. Then, they still can’t be left to their own devices. They have to placed somewhere warm enough to get them through the remaining winter months. We’ll tackle care in another post, but suffice it to say, it takes a bit for them to settle in.
2. Egg Production Takes Time
If you’re buying chicks with the expectation of having eggs right away, prepare for a long wait. Most breeds won’t start laying until they are about 4-6 months old. If you purchase chicks in the spring, you may not see your first eggs until late summer. They might even arrive in fall. Certain breeds take even longer, and egg production can be affected by seasonal changes, nutrition, and overall health.
3. You May End Up With Roosters
There is a good chance that some of your chicks will grow up to be roosters. This is true unless you’re purchasing sexed chicks (which aren’t always 100% accurate). Roosters can be loud, aggressive, and in many areas, they aren’t allowed due to local ordinances. If you’re reading this from rural Maine, you’re probably ok but you should also check with your neighbors. If you don’t want roosters, buy started pullets (young hens) instead of chicks. Alternatively, have a plan for rehoming any unwanted males.
4. The Cost May Surprise You
Raising chickens isn’t necessarily a money-saving venture. Homegrown eggs are fresher. They are often more nutritious. However, the cost of feed, bedding, housing, and healthcare can add up quickly. High-quality feed, (especially if you want non-GMO or organic) can be expensive. Additionally, if your chickens free-range, you’ll need to consider predator-proofing their space to keep them safe.
We have chicken wire fencing, multiple coops, and a rock star livestock guardian dog for predator control. Without those things, we’d suffer loss after loss.
5. Chickens Need Year-Round Care
Many people focus on the warm-weather benefits of raising chickens, like fresh eggs and bug control. They often forget about the winter months. In colder climates, chickens need extra care, including protection from frostbite, supplemental feed, and heated waterers to prevent freezing. If you travel frequently or have harsh winters, plan for how you’ll keep your flock healthy year-round.
6. Different Breeds Have Different Needs
Not all chickens are the same. Some breeds are better suited for egg production, while others are dual-purpose (good for eggs and meat). Some are more cold-hardy, and others tolerate heat better. Research breeds carefully before buying to ensure the breed matches with your climate and goals. Hint: Stick to the heritage breeds for hardiest options.
7. Chickens Have a Lifespan Beyond Egg Production
Hens don’t lay eggs forever. Most peak in egg production between 1-3 years old, with a gradual decline afterward. With that said, chickens can live for 5-10 years or more. That means you’ll need a plan for older hens—whether you keep them as pets or cull them for meat. We have pet chickens that are about 10 years old.
They’re an added expense but like all sentient beings, they still serve a purpose. In this case, the purpose is we like having them around.
8. Backyard Chickens Are a Commitment
Raising chickens is a long-term responsibility. They require far less daily maintenance than some pets if your set up is good. If your set up is bad, you’re in for some work. Regardless of your coop set up, they need food, water, and protection from predators every single day. Before getting chicks, consider your lifestyle and whether you’re prepared for the commitment.
Is Raising Chickens Right for You?
If you’re ready to put in the effort, raising chickens can be a fulfilling experience. Fresh eggs are a great reason to get started. Watching your flock grow brings joy. Free-ranging hens offer pest control benefits. However, understanding the time, cost, and care involved is pretty important to making an informed decision.
If you’re thinking about getting chicks this year, take the time to prepare properly. Invest in the right equipment, research breeds, and ensure you have a plan for long-term care. With the right approach, your backyard flock can be a rewarding and sustainable addition to your homestead!
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