Many people are deciding to raise their own chickens for eggs, even in urban locations. For some, it's about simplifying their lives and getting back to basics. You might be surprised to learn that it doesn't take a lot of work to raise chickens for eggs. They can be educational for your kids plus they will supply your family with plenty of fresh eggs.
Instructions
1. Check your local and city ordinances. Before buying your chicks, make sure that it is legal for you to raise them where you live. Some areas do not allow livestock in residential locations. Even if you are free and clear to begin raising chickens, you should also consider your neighbors before making a final decision.
2. Find a place to keep them. You really don't need a lot amount of space to get started. In fact you can create a pen to keep them together in a small section of your yard made with wood and wire, or you can allow them to roam the entire yard as free-range chickens.
3. You should also build a small shelter for the chickens to escape weather changes and protect them from predators. It can be a simple box construction made with inexpensive plywood and wire. Build it high off the ground in a location that drains well when it rains. Make sure the coop faces the sun, which will help it dry quickly. It's important to make sure your chicken coop is well-ventilated, especially when hot weather arrives. Adding sliding windows that open and close will provide necessary airflow. The walls of the coop should be insulated to keep the birds warm at night and during colder months.You can also add an electric light in the coop for even more warmth. It's important to keep the chicken coop clean to avoid disease.
4. Choose chickens known for laying lots of eggs. Since you are planning to raise chickens for eggs, make sure you choose the right species. Even though all chickens lay eggs, certain breeds are well-known for their ability to lay lots of eggs. Breed known to lay eggs consistently on an almost daily basis include Leghorn, Rhode Island Reds, Black Star, Light Sussex and Plymouth Rocks. Four chickens are enough to supply eggs for an entire family.
5. Feed your chickens well to get the best quality eggs. Egg laying chickens have a simple diet. Newly hatched chicks are feed starter feed until they are 6 weeks old. The feed is designed to encourage maximum nutrition and growth. Adult egg laying chickens should be fed layer feed. It contains 16 percent protein and an extra boost of calcium for stronger shells. If you're raising free-range chickens, you'll find they are a cheap, chemical-free way to control insects in your yard. They also produce much larger eggs and eat less feed since they will automatically add insects and grass from your yard to their diet.
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