Backyard Chickens

black/red colored Welsummer rooster, side profile (iStockphoto:24808942 (C) sanddebeautheil)

Backyard poultry have become increasingly popular in recent years as interest in locally produced food, including eggs, has grown. Many local municipalities allow a limited number of domestic fowl on residential properties. Before getting a backyard flock, it is important to understand issues related to legal aspects, husbandry and health, and diseases that can be spread by poultry to people. Poultry can benefit you in several ways: 1) food from eggs and/or meat; 2) weed control; 3) insect/ snail/slug control; and 4) nutrient-rich manure that can be composted or used as a garden soil amendment. Beside these benefits, home food production is fun, educational, and rewarding.