by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
Have you ever had simple questions about chickens that you’ve been afraid to ask? Have no fear… your basic chicken FAQ guide is here! Keep reading to learn some fun facts about chickens that you may or may not already know.
Do you need a rooster around in order for a hen to lay eggs?
Nope! Hens will lay eggs even if a rooster is not present. If you wish to achieve fertilized eggs and hatch your own chicks, you will need to have a rooster around.
How long do chickens live for?
On average, chickens will live between 3 and 10 years of age, with 8-10 years being a more ideal. If you are looking to increase the life expectancy of your flock, read this blog.
How often do chickens lay eggs?
Chickens bred for laying can lay eggs as often as once per day. Chickens bred for meat production, along with other hybrid breeds, will usually lay less than this. In addition, hens are likely to lay the most around 6 months of age, with egg production decreasing each following year.
In general, hens lay the least during the winter season, and the most during the summer.
Am I allowed to have chickens in my town?
That depends on where you live! Some municipalities allow residents to keep poultry and some do not. Check out Municode, which will give you access to chicken laws in your area.
Can chickens fly?
Smaller breeds, such as bantams, can fly up to 50 feet at a time. Heavier breeds, such as meat breeds, are far less likely to take flight. Chickens are most commonly seen flying up to roost in the early evening hours.
How much care do chickens require?
Chickens are quite easy to care for. You will need to check the coop once per day to collect eggs. You will also need to ensure that you close your chickens in their coop every night, preferably before dark, to prevent predators from snagging them. Feed and water containers should be replenished whenever they run low, and bedding should be removed when soiled. Some chicken owners remove droppings daily, while others do a deeper clean of the coop once per week.
Are certain colors of eggs healthier than others?
No, the color of an egg has no effect on how healthy it is. If you have ever heard that brown eggs are healthier than white eggs, this is a myth!
Will the eggs my pet chickens lay taste better than store-bought?
Yes! Research has shown that free roaming chickens lay eggs that are higher in Omega 3 fatty acids and lower in cholesterol.
How much does it cost to purchase a chicken?
Young chicks cost anywhere from a few dollars to $30, depending on the gender and breed. Pullets that have already started laying tend to be more expensive. Cockerels, being in low demand, usually run cheaper.
Are chickens noisy?
Roosters are absolutely noisy. Contrary to popular belief, they do not simply crow in the mornings… they will crow all throughout the day! Hens tend to be on the quieter side, and won’t make much noise unless they are defending their eggs.
Can chickens get baths?
Chickens prefer to take their own dust baths to keep themselves clean and pest-free. However, if you plan to show your chicken or have noticed an accumulation of droppings on their feathers, you can definitely give them a bath using water. See more about bathing chickens here.
Hopefully you’ll feel a bit more educated about chickens after reading the above FAQ! Remember, you will never know everything about your feathered friends… there is always more to learn. Stay tuned for our weekly blogs that will assist you in your chicken knowledge!