02/10/2025
As baby chick season rolls around and egg prices keep climbing, I know a lot of folks are probably thinking about raising their own chickens. Before you rush to the farm store to grab all the adorable chicks (yes, they are hard to resist!), here are 10 things to think about first:
1. Patience is key—Most hens won’t start laying eggs until they’re about 18-22 weeks old (roughly 5 months).
2. Baby chicks need warmth—For their first few weeks, chicks need to be kept at about 95°F.
3. Feeding isn’t free—Chickens eat…a lot. And like everything else these days, feed prices are up. A 50lb bag of layer feed will set you back over $20.
4. Molting happens—Chickens go through a molting phase where they shed feathers, look a little rough, and stop laying eggs for a while.
5. Winter means fewer eggs—Egg production naturally slows down in the colder months.
6. Chickens can live a long time—Their lifespan is 5-10 years, so they’re a long-term commitment.
7. Predators are a real threat—Foxes, raccoons, coyotes, bears, bobcats, cougars and even neighborhood dogs will see your chickens as dinner.
8. Mess makers—Chickens will p**p everywhere. Whether they’re in a coop or free-ranging, you’ll need to clean up after them regularly.
9. Yard damage—Chickens love to dig and scratch, which can wreak havoc on flower beds and landscaping.
10. Health concerns—Chickens can get sick or injured, just like any other pet or livestock, so be prepared to deal with potential vet visits.
I’m not saying this to discourage anyone from raising chickens—I think it’s fantastic to grow your own food! But chickens are living creatures that require time, effort, and care. If the rising cost of eggs has you dreaming of backyard chickens, just take a moment to research what you’re getting into. It’s definitely not as simple as buying a fish.
From one chicken owner to another
