John B. Marek is a storyteller with dirt under his nails who weaves tales inspired by a lifetime immersed in nature. His insightful essays and award-winning fiction delve into the complexities of sustainable living, the heart of rural communities and the thrill of outdoor adventure. You can find more of his writing at johnbmarek.com.
Recently, I attended a get-together where the topic of rising egg prices took center stage. A particularly harsh strain of bird flu has swept across the nation, devastating poultry flocks and causing the price of a dozen eggs to more than double compared to last year. Amidst groans about the cost of grocery staples, several attendees expressed thoughts about raising backyard chickens as a potential solution. I completely understand the appeal of having a fresh supply of eggs right outside your door; however, I can’t help but hope that this conversation about chickens remains just that – talk.
The notion of building a backyard coop to counter skyrocketing egg prices is akin to the idea of drilling an oil well in your backyard to cope with high gasoline prices. While there are numerous solid reasons to consider keeping chickens, saving money on eggs in the short term is not one of them.
Let’s consider a few crucial factors before diving into the world of chicken keeping. First and foremost, you’ll need to be aware of local ordinances, as many neighborhoods have strict regulations – or even outright bans – on keeping livestock. Some areas might not just require permits; they might also have limitations on the number and type of animals you can keep. Always check these regulations before spending a dime on your new feathered friends.
Now, let’s talk about that initial investment. It’s not merely about purchasing a few chickens; establishing a quality coop can set you back anywhere from $500 to $800. On top of that, you’ll need feeders, waterers, initial feed, bedding and, of course, predator-proof fencing. Overall, expect to invest around $1,000 before you even collect your first egg.
You might be thinking, “I live in a suburban neighborhood; we don’t have predators.” I hate to be the one to break this to you, but yes, you do. Raccoons with surprisingly dexterous hands can open latches, foxes can squeeze through openings you’d swear were too small and hawks can dive from above in a heartbeat. Coyotes have also staked their claim even in the most well-kept suburbs. In a single night, just one predator can wipe out an entire coop.
Predator-proofing your coop is not negotiable. You’ll need to invest in materials like hardware cloth instead of flimsy chicken wire, install underground fencing at least a foot deep, secure latches that are escape-proof and possibly even set up overhead netting. Motion-activated lights and regular nightly checks become the norm. This isn’t a weekend adventure; it’s a long-term commitment requiring careful planning and diligence.
Next, let’s discuss daily chicken care, which is no small undertaking. Consider the time you’ll spend each morning ensuring your birds have fresh water, proper feed and safe, clean coop conditions. You’ll need to collect eggs, assess the health of each hen and secure the coop every evening. Weekly deep cleaning is essential, and monthly health checks are important for keeping your flock in prime condition.
When it comes to egg production, it’s essential to set realistic expectations. While your prime-laying hens might yield 250 to 300 eggs a year, remember that production will decrease as the birds age and will plummet in the winter months. First-year layers are your most productive, but even then, you shouldn’t expect a steady flow of eggs throughout the year.
Financially speaking, store-bought eggs might cost $8 or $9 per dozen these days. However, when you calculate the true cost of raising chickens, including feed, maintenance and the initial investment, you’re looking at around $8 to $10 per dozen for the first few years. This isn’t a strategy for saving money; it’s more of a passion project or a lifestyle choice.
Who should seriously consider keeping chickens? Those with ample outdoor space, a genuine passion for animal care and enough time to dedicate to daily maintenance. Conversely, busy professionals, frequent travelers and anyone hesitant about handling animal care should think twice before diving in.
Ultimately, chickens are not a trendy hobby or a quick fix for soaring egg prices. They require a notable investment of time, money and emotional energy. Before proceeding, it’s imperative to do thorough research, consult with local chicken keepers and have an honest conversation with yourself about your capabilities and commitment.
Sometimes, the most pragmatic solution is to bite the inflation bullet and buy eggs from the store rather than take on the challenges of raising your own chickens.