If you love fresh eggs, chickens are a wonderful investment, and you don’t have to live on a farm to raise them. Many suburban areas allow you to keep several chickens as long as they don’t create any problems with the neighbors and are properly contained. You’ll find it’s much easier than you think to get started, and by using the right livestock feed and supplies, you’ll have a thriving family of chickens in no time.

Your Guide to Raising Chicken in Your Backyard

Check Local Laws & Ordinances

Before you do anything, make sure it’s legal to own chickens where you live. Check state and local ordinances on government websites and speak with your homeowner’s association to get further approval. There may be a limit to how many chickens you can own and a ban on roosters since they can be loud. Staff at a livestock feed and supplies store may be familiar with local laws.

Set Them up With a Coop

Your chickens need a safe, cozy place to nest. If you raise them from chicks, purchase a large box you can fill with wood shavings, then place a feeder and waterer in it. This is called a brooder, and you can keep it in your home while they mature. It’s important that the brooder is kept away from predators.

Once they mature—roughly six weeks after hatching—or if you purchase grown hens, you’ll need a coop. You can purchase one or build your own. Assess how much space you have in your yard. Often, the bigger the coop, the better. Include a bedding area with nesting boxes where eggs can be laid as well as a contained open-air space so the chickens have access to fresh air.

Provide Quality Feed

To keep your chickens healthy, feed them well with organic products from a livestock feed and supplies store. Hen feed impacts your chickens’ health and the quality of eggs they lay, so make sure there are nutrients like vitamin D and manganese and plenty of crude protein and fiber. The average chicken eats 120 grams of feed per day.

If you’re looking for quality livestock feed and supplies, stop by Racine’s Feed, Garden & Supply. Located in Robertsdale, AL, they carry a variety of products, including fertilizer, feed, and general pet supplies. They also stock personal supplies, including hunting accessories and horse tack, which you can view on their website. Call (251) 947-3003 to speak with a friendly staff member and like their Facebook page for news, deals, and updates.