Raising Chickens: Benefits and Essentials for Beginners

Are you considering owning chickens but unsure where to start? Look no further! In this blog, we'll explore the numerous benefits of having chickens and provide essential tips for beginners who wish to embark on this fulfilling journey. From fresh eggs to sustainable practices, raising chickens offers a host of advantages for both you and the environment.

1. Fresh and Nutritious Eggs:

One of the most apparent benefits of raising chickens is the regular supply of fresh, nutritious eggs. Not only are homegrown eggs richer in flavor and color, but they are also free from harmful chemicals and antibiotics often found in store-bought eggs. Plus, you'll have the joy of collecting eggs straight from your coop every morning.


2. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices:

Owning chickens contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. They are great at recycling kitchen scraps, turning them into nutrient-rich compost. Additionally, chickens help control insect populations, reducing the need for chemical pesticides in your garden. By embracing these eco-friendly practices, you'll reduce your ecological footprint and promote a greener environment.

3. Connection with Nature:

Chickens provide a wonderful opportunity for beginners to reconnect with nature. Observing their quirky behaviors, hearing their cheerful clucks, and watching them roam freely in a natural environment can be a therapeutic and calming experience. It's a chance to step away from the digital world and embrace the simplicity of life on the farm.

4. Educational and Family-Friendly:

Raising chickens can be an educational experience, especially for families with children. Kids can learn about responsibility, animal care, and where their food comes from. It's a great way to introduce children to the circle of life, nurturing empathy and respect for all living beings.



Essential Supplies for Beginners:

Now that we've explored the benefits, let's discuss the essential supplies beginners will need to get started with chickens:

1. Coop and Run: A sturdy and predator-proof chicken coop is essential to keep your feathered friends safe at night and provide shelter during harsh weather. An attached run will allow them space to exercise and explore during the day if free ranging is not an option. 

2. Feeder and Waterer: Invest in good-quality feeders and waterers to ensure your chickens have access to fresh food and water at all times.

3. Bedding Material: Choose an appropriate bedding material, such as straw, wood shavings, or sand to keep the coop clean and comfortable for your chickens.

4. Chicken Feed: Select a balanced and age-appropriate chicken feed, ensuring it contains the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy and produce delicious eggs. Chickens need more than just scratch. 

5. Medical Supplies: Get in touch with your local veterinarian to find out what medicine you should have on hand. I always try to keep Electrolytes and Coccidia medication on hand, both are readily available for purchase online or at your local Feed store. 

6. Nesting Boxes: Provide nesting boxes filled with soft bedding material, where hens can lay their eggs in peace.

7. Chickens: Last but not least, choose your chicken breeds wisely, considering factors such as egg production, temperament, and climate suitability. In our other blogs we go over the chicken breeds we raise and offer here on the farm and their qualities. Feel free to check them out to learn more on my we choose the breeds that we have. 

Raising chickens is a gratifying and rewarding experience that comes with a plethora of benefits. From the joy of fresh eggs to fostering sustainable practices, owning chickens can transform your backyard into a lively and vibrant sanctuary. For beginners, ensuring you have the essential supplies and a passion for learning about these feathered companions will set you on the path to a successful and enriching journey. Embrace the charm of rural life, and you'll soon discover the unique bond you can form with these charming creatures. Happy chicken keeping!

-Masha at Mockingbird Homestead