Raising Poultry: Keeping Costs Down

Keeping your own flock is always assumed to be more expensive than just buying eggs from the store. But is it? Everyone has reasons for keeping a flock: Self-reliance, knowing where your food comes from, fresher eggs, or having pets. Aside from the start-up costs, my hens are pretty cheap. Let’s explore some ways to keep those costs down.

Source Inexpensive Bedding

Some bedding options may be cheaper than others in different locations. Straw, wood chips, sand, shredded newspaper or cardboard, and ground cob are all good options. Check prices in your area and be aware that some options may be seasonal or more affordable during certain times of the year. Avoid cedar and sawdust, as they can cause health issues with the flock.

Pricing Feed

Aside from the farm stores, most areas have feed mills where feed is usually cheaper. The feed is mixed and bagged on-site, eliminating the middleman and transportation costs to farm stores.

How Much Feed Per Day

Yes, your hens can overeat, resulting in overweight birds and reduced egg production. The amount will vary depending on age, breed, and activity level; however, a good starting point is ¼ pound per hen per day.

Selling Eggs

Sometimes we have more eggs than we know what to do with. Consider selling to friends or neighbors to offset feed expenses. 

Open Compost Pile

Keep an open compost pile to allow the hens to scratch and break down the materials. This can help in many ways. Birds can eat some scraps, compost gets turned, and there may be bugs in the pile that will also provide extra protein for your flock. 

Farming 

Black Soldier Fly and Mealworm farming has become quite popular as a food addition to your flock. For more information, check out these articles: Black Soldier Fly Farming and Mealworm Farming.

If you are just starting with chickens or have them already, keep these cost-saving tips in mind. Feed will be the largest expense you have after housing. You can source used items locally for housing and equipment to keep start-up costs down. Do the best with what you have; nothing fancy is required!  Also, consider a movable coop or chicken tractor not only for inexpensive housing, but to help keep your birds on fresh, clean grass or pasture. This can also reduce bedding expenses, and many of these can be modified to help the flock stay warm in the winter.