Chickens are probably the most popular animal to raise for those who would live a more self sufficient lifestyle. Time and time again I’ve observed people who move onto a piece of land, start talking about “getting back to the basics” and, almost invariably get some chickens. Starting in chickens can be daunting for the person who is totally new to animal husbandry. Yet, chickens are often a great choice for getting started. They tend to be very forgiving of our mistakes and, when something happens, and one loses a bird or birds, they won’t generally break the bank to replace.

What Does One Get from Raising Chickens?

• Eggs: Probably the most common reason people get into chickens is to produce their own eggs. Indeed, fresh home produced eggs are often of higher quality that what one can purchase in the store. If the chickens are allowed even a couple of hours a day to roam, eat grass and bugs, their eggs will most certainly be higher in nutritional value than most commercial eggs.
• Meat: Chicken has to be about the most popular meat in the world! It’s nutritious, delicious and versatile. A chicken is a handy size animal for most people considering the processing of meat. (How would you like to start out butchering, with a 1000 pound steer!)
  Education: There’s a whole lot a person can learn from chickens. Basic animal husbandry is similar for all species. It’s not exactly the same from one species to another, but the basic issues one deals with are pretty much common to all animals. Chickens are a good starting point for learning
• Entertainment: Yes! Chickens make for good entertainment. If you have never had them before, you’ll be amazed at how interesting they can be. Watching chickens in the yard is more entertaining than television!