Friday, September 21, 2007

Chickens in the Backyard

No, the title isn't a metaphor for the glory days gone by, or for short, funny stories that will uplift you. I'm talking about real, honest to goodness chickens. And why would there be chickens in the backyard? Well for the eggs of course!
A new idea thats been brought about in the green world is that of keeping your own chickens, even in a slightly urban setting. I don't think its responsible to have them in your apartment building, but that is up to you.
Basically the idea is that with a little work, you get organic (mostly free!) eggs, and eventually chicken meat. Chickens don't require too much space (they'll never fly away). Besides feeding, the occasional cleaning and protection from your neighbours cat, the work can be minimal. And they're just so fun to watch, heads bobbing when they walk. They also provide a sort of pest control, since they eat mosquitoes and other bugs that would annoy you.
Now there are difficulties in raising chickens, such as you can't just leave for a week (much like any pet), you do need to collect the eggs unless you want rotten eggs sitting around, and there are bird flus and predators that come around, but if you want to guarantee fresh, organic eggs to eat there is no better way than that.

Here is a great site to get more info on raising chickens in your backyard: The City Chicken




-

No comments: