Did you notice a sharp increase in your grocery bill over the past few months?
You’re not imagining things. Experts say egg prices rose over 16% in April.
That’s not all, either. The pandemic has affected poultry and meat processing facilities, too. Alongside extreme weather, 2020 has the potential to create widespread food insecurity.
There is something you can do about it, though. Have you considered raising your own chickens? If so, you’re likely wondering what the cost of raising chickens is and if it’s worth it. Read on to find out!
Remaining Compliant
First thing’s first. You always need to remain compliant with the law. Before you even consider owning chickens, you need to make sure you can.
Local laws may restrict animal ownership. This is especially true if you live in a residential area. If you’re renting, then you need your landlord’s permission.
Depending on where you live, you may need to pay a fee or get a permit. You may also need to budget for an inspection after you build your coop. This inspection will ensure your coop is up to code.
Costs are usually minimal, but they vary from area to area.
Which Comes First, the Chicken or the Egg?
Your next cost consideration is the price of the animals themselves. For the first time, you get to decide which comes first — the chicken or egg.
Baby chicks only cost about $1-5, whereas an adult chicken will cost about $3-30.
Creating the Coop
How much does it cost to secure a coop? It depends on your preference and budget.
DIY projects can cost as little as $50 and a big time investment. Professional coups can cost anywhere from $300-2,000.
Raising Your Chicks
Once you’ve got your animals and coop, you’ll need to invest in their health. When it comes to food, it’s best to stick with organic products. You can also feed your chickens kitchen scraps, too. It’s budget-friendly and good for your pets.
You’ll also need to invest in a heat lamp, water bowl, and fencing to keep your babies safe.
The Cost of Liability
Are you planning on selling your eggs in the future? Do you intend to share your eggs with friends or neighbors?
If so, then it’s best to buy insurance to protect yourself. If your eggs make someone sick, then you could get held liable for the damages. You could also get held responsible if someone gets sick from petting your chickens.
Farm insurance won’t cost much, and it’s worth the investment.
Is the Cost of Raising Chickens Worth It?
The cost of raising chickens may seem steep, but it’s well worth it. By raising your own chickens, you’re adopting a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle.
You’re providing your family with food security, which is becoming harder to come by as the years tick on.
Are you looking for more pro-tips to help you survive 2020? You’re not alone! The new normal has us all looking for hope and stability. Keep browsing through our lifestyle section for more of our latest content.