Chickendude68's Profile

Oh boy, someone needs to dispel some of the ridiculous things being said here. Firstly, go ahead and try to hatch eggs. While there is a learning curve, it is incredibly rewarding to put some eggs in an incubator, and having the family sit around 21 days later and watch them hatch, fully formed. Had I not done it myself I doubt it would have been possible for something like that to happen so quickly.

Also, there is nothing wrong with adopting a hen from someone else. Why someone would say you won't get eggs is beyond me. Many people hatch out their own eggs, or their living condition changes and they have to get rid of chickens. Unless it's an old hen, chances are, you'll get eggs. Sometimes, the move can stop a hen from laying, but it's temporary. Once they are comfortable and happy, they will begin to lay again. Go this route if you want eggs in less than 5 or 6 months, which is the average time from hatch to lay.

The smell...almost all chicken poop does not smell, unless it gets wet. If they are being fed a proper diet, and the owner is willing to do even minimal upkeep when it comes to the coop, there shouldn't be any problems.

Chickens are NOT a lot of work, once you have your coop and run. Give them fresh water and feed, and don't let the coop get out of control (I clean mine out completely twice yearly only), and that's it. The rest of it is pure joy.

10 eggs a day might be too much for 2 people, unless you sell the extras! That little extra money selling a few dozen to neighbors or co-workers will almost eliminate your feed bill!

And finally (only because I have a life), the idea that chickens can not be pets is just ridiculous. We have a dog, and 30+ chickens. They are all our babies. Several times per week, the whole family will sit outside for hours, watch the chickens and chat. Some breeds are so gentle and love human contact that they will jump on your lap and roost for an hour while you pet them. I walk out my door and they come running to say hello, and "bok" for treats. My rooster gets on the porch railing, and crows for me to come and spend time out there. And to top it off, they feed our family of 5.

I'm sorry to be blunt, and don't wish to offend anyone. But there is so much false information out there about backyard flocks. Just remember to check your local laws. Roosters can be offensive if you have very close neighbors. Though sometimes, you can bribe them with free eggs. Do your research....read up on chicken ownership, and make the right decisions for you and your family, and the flock you want to own.