Chicken keeping isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of life! You might be lucky enough to have that friend who brings you around their coop every now and then. Or maybe you are that friend. One way or another, you’ve stumbled into the chicken keeping world. If you’ve found yourself asking “why are chicken keepers so awesome?” but are unable to pinpoint an answer, maybe it’s because there’s more than just one. Here are the the top reasons why chicken keepers rock!
1. They Live Sustainably
Most people go into chicken keeping for the abundance of eggs chickens can lay. Not only do chickens provide a great alternative to buying eggs from the grocery store, they’re also natural composts! Chickens can eat just about anything, so food hardly ever goes to waste when there’s a flock out back. On top of that, keepers can even use chickens’ waste as fertilizer for their garden! How’s that for sustainable living?
2. Their Chickens Lay Better Eggs
Chickens keepers receive these delicious nutrient-packed gifts we call eggs by the dozen, and sometimes they even share them with their friends! These eggs tend to be much more nutritious than factory-farmed eggs. Chicken keepers have a lot less chickens to care for, so they can make sure their chickens are eating properly and getting all the nutrients they need from healthy chicken feeds. These locally sourced eggs tend to have more omega-3 fatty acids and less cholesterol than factory-farm eggs.
3. They Are More Ethically Sound
Chicken keepers tend to provide their flock with an honorable amount of freedom to roam, socialize, and just simply exist. They may be sources of food, but they still deserve to be treated with compassion and kindness. This simple act can actually increase the overall quality of eggs, too. Factory-farmed chickens tend to be tightly packed with hundreds or thousands of other chickens. The lack of range limits these chickens from stretching, walking, and socializing with other chickens which lowers their quality of life. So if you ever notice a difference in the taste of factory-farmed eggs vs. local free-range, this could be one reason.
4. They Care About Their Flock
Many keepers you ask will say their flock is family! From special toys, treats, and swings, there’s no doubt we’ve seen some spoiled chickens out there. When chickens are treated with respect and care, they give that right back. We’ve seen keepers run to their flock’s side for medical emergencies, grieve over the loss flock members, and even move just to have more space for their flock to roam. Chicken keepers have shown the world how truly special and capable chickens are. They constantly show us a chicken’s ability to learn, remember, and even love.
If you’re lucky enough to own chickens, then you’re lucky enough. These are just a few reasons why we appreciate the hard-working chicken keepers out there. Each year we see more and more chicken keepers emerging, and it’s for good reason. If you know a chicken keeper, be sure to thank them for all they do!