by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
Chickens are far from ordinary birds. There is something heartwarming about their soft feathers and cheerful clucks. Once you have chickens you can never go back… their presence is what we have all come to know and love. Here are some reasons why we absolutely love chickens!
1. You can collect different breeds. Each breed is unique and has something different to offer! Some chickens lay eggs that are different colors, creating a fun surprise each time you open the nest box. Some chickens, like bantams, are small and perfect for cuddling. Silkies are fluffy and a bit more extravagant in their appearance. Whether you prefer classic looking chickens or something unique, there is a breed that will suit your fancy.
2. Chickens are intelligent. Don’t underestimate these bird brains! Chickens are smarter than you think, and are creatures of habit. They have an excellent sense of time, putting themselves in their coop at night. Chickens remember where to lay their eggs each day. Amazingly, chickens also know how to avoid poisonous plants!
3. Chickens are fun to observe! It’s fun to watch chickens react to new treats, like the fun variations that CoopCrate has to offer. Watching them hunt bugs is another enjoyable experience for adults and children alike. Chickens get you away from the television, providing some high quality outdoor entertainment!
4. Chickens will give you limitless, high quality eggs! Research shows that eggs from free-range chickens are lower in cholesterol and higher in vitamins. Once you have experienced your own farm-fresh chicken eggs, you will never want to go back to store-bought eggs again. The taste is richer, and some say the resulting baked goods are fluffier! Plus, you can avoid extra grocery store trips with eggs that are just a few steps from your back door!
5. Chickens will help your garden. While your chickens are scratching and digging around your lawn, their droppings are also fertilizing it. Not only do chickens provide a beneficial source of nitrogen to the area, but they will also eliminate weeds and create compost in the process!
6. Chickens eat pests. They’ll happily devour mosquitoes, ticks, beetles, and other pesky insects. Thanks to your ever-hungry flock, you and your family can enjoy a pest-free outdoor barbecue! And, by giving your chickens the opportunity to scratch through the soil of your yard, they can dispose of pests that might harm your plants or crops.
7. Chickens teach our families about the circle of life. Hatching eggs, raising chicks, and ultimately watching them develop into chickens is a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Although chickens are considered low-maintenance pets, they are great for introducing responsibility to younger children.
8. Chickens are friends! They are expressive and social animals that will come running when they see you. Some chickens are cuddly, and appreciate being held, pet, and even brushed. Holding a chicken that you love releases oxytocin, which lowers your stress level and is a surefire way to improve your mood. This is why chickens make great therapy animals!
We own chickens because of the above reasons, and many, many more. So, why do you love your chickens?