Chickens

I recently read a blog post on Cold Antler Farm about husbands and chickens. Basically there have been several readers who wrote in saying that their spouses weren't interested in raising chickens. It's a shame really, because as Jenna points out "hens pay rent in the form of eggs." That they do. They're possibly the easiest farm animal to care for in my humble opinion. My kids do most of the work during the week (don't tell HE that) collecting eggs, filling their grain bin and water.

The coop needs cleaning a few times a year, depending on how dirty it gets, but that isn't a big job either. HE did it in about an hour the other night. Granted, he had a back ache for a few days afterward, but I think that's because he worked fast. and hadn't stretched before or after (and, let's face it, we aren't spring chickens anymore;-). and he's been a bit stressed out with the happenings in Madison. and he sits all day at his job.

So for all of you husbands out there who are somewhat reluctant, recruit your kiddos and follow these steps:
Build or buy a coop:

HE built this, but he's a bit of a do-it-yourselfer, so no need to over-achieve, there are lots of great options out there.

Then, get some chicks:

I mean, really, how cute is that?

Keep them in a warm place until they are big enough to be in the coop (few weeks). Feed them chick feed and give them fresh water every day.

We raised Buckeyes from day-old chicks starting last March and started getting eggs last November. We have about 11 hens and a rooster. We get on average 8 eggs a day--plenty to use and have some leftover to share.

I guess, from another perspective (and I'm not being snarky) who needs their husband to "rule the roost"? Hubby doesn't even have to know about it, when it comes right down to it. If you've got some good friends, handy family members and ambitious kiddos you could do it without his help. They really are easy and those eggs are oh-so-delicious. And fun. And pride-inducing.

And chickens are fun "pets" not to mention voracious insect eaters. They are entertaining and beautiful.

But, I'm no expert--there are many books on chicken raising that you can get from the library to help you on your chicken journey.

We'll be getting a second batch of Buckeye chicks in about a month--a bit later than last year, but we want to keep them in the house for less time and the weather will be warmer, making it easier to transition them a bit sooner. They do make an incredible amount of dust. But don't tell your spouse about that....