When Troy gave me the green light that we could add chickens to our homestead, we both dove headfirst into research. Over the past two years, we’ve learned that raising chickens is anything but a walk in the park. If you’re considering bringing these feathered creatures into your life, here are some lessons we’ve gathered from our experiences—both the good and the challenging.

Where to Start?

Hatching vs. Buying: First, decide whether you want to hatch eggs, buy chicks, or purchase pullets (hens 6+ week old). This choice will shape your experience significantly, depending on how much time and effort you’re willing to invest.

Rooster? Next, think about whether you want a rooster. Some can be aggressive with humans, but they are very good at protecting their flock. With small children around, we chose to forgo a rooster for a very long time. After almost two years of raising chickens, we just got our first Roo.

Proper Housing: Troy dedicated countless hours to building a safe and comfortable coop for our chickens. A well-constructed coop is essential not just for comfort, but for protection against predators.

Free Range or Run? We knew from the beginning that we wanted our chickens to free range. This decision brings its own set of challenges and joys, as it allows the chickens to enjoy a more natural lifestyle while also introducing the risk of predators.

Feeding: Are you going to buy feed or make your own? We opted to buy commercial feed since most of our chickens’ diet comes from foraging. This choice has simplified our feeding routine while ensuring their nutritional needs are met.

Choosing the Right Breed: The climate in your area plays a huge role in what breeds will thrive. Some chickens handle heat better, while others are cold-hardy. Do your research to find the best fit for your environment.

Are You Sure You Want Chickens?

The Smell: Let’s get real: chickens can smell bad. If you’re planning on starting with baby chicks, expect some unpleasant odors while they’re indoors. Proper ventilation and cleanliness are key. Consider a garage or a safe building outdoors!

Predator Issues: Every predator out there seems to have a taste for chicken. From dogs, coyotes, and raccoons to hawks and owls, you will more than likely lose some chickens, especially if they’re free ranging. Be prepared for this reality.

Fragile Creatures: Chickens can be delicate. We have lost more than I’d like to mysterious causes. Some sour crop, some heat stroke, and some still unknown. Having some handy items ready and knowing signs and what to do before you bring home your chicks can save you a lot of heartache down the road. I plan to share more on this in a future post.

They Eat Everything: Chickens are notorious for being little garbage disposals. Your garden, especially your unripe tomatoes and newly planted flowers, won’t be safe. They’ll even investigate your dogs’ bowls—so keep an eye on them!

Time Commitment: Chickens, especially as chicks, require significant attention and monitoring. This learning curve is steep, but rewarding. Expect to dedicate time daily to their care.

The Joy They Bring

Troy and I both agree that chickens have become a staple on our homestead. They provide us with fresh eggs, endless entertainment, and help keep our land fertilized. They also help keep the unwanted insects…ticks, grasshoppers, hornworms, etc. But keep in mind their nesting boxes of eggs will attract snakes!! They have also taught us commitment and offered us the joy of watching them roam and interact with their environment.

In the end, raising chickens is a labor of love, filled with ups and downs. If you’re willing to embrace the journey, the rewards will undoubtedly outweigh the challenges. Happy chicken keeping!