\u00a0Have you ever tasted those amazing \u201cfarm-fresh\u201d eggs? Would you like a handful of insect-pest control technicians that work for free? Either way, a backyard chicken flock can be a wonderful addition to your home\u2014if you are prepared for the commitment. Monroe County has several families currently raising birds, and you may want to join their ranks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before you jump in the truck, race to the local feed and seed, and buy half a dozen chicks you aren\u2019t sure how to manage, let\u2019s go over a few key things to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are you looking for lots of eggs? Are you interested in competing in a 4-H poultry showmanship event? What breeds should you look for? There are four general categories of birds to choose from, and selecting the right breed depends entirely on your goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Egg Layers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Egg layers are bred to produce 200+ eggs per year. Examples include White Leghorns, Golden Comets, Plymouth Rocks, and Easter Eggers. If your primary goal is filling the breakfast table, these are the birds for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Meat Birds<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Cornish Cross is the premier option if your goal is raising birds for meat. They are fast growers and ideal if you plan to process your own poultry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dual Purpose<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As the name implies, these birds are good for both egg production and meat. Breeds like the Delaware, Jersey Giant, and Rhode Island Red are hardy, produce quality eggs, and grow large enough to be processed if desired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hobby Flocks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n These fancy breeds are often kept as pets or show birds. Polish and Silkie chickens are great examples. While their plumage is striking, their eggs tend to be small and less frequent. Still, it\u2019s hard to beat having a miniature, fluffy dinosaur patrolling your yard to protect your plants from grasshoppers and beetles!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Housing & Care Essentials<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you have defined your goals and selected your breeds, ensure you have the proper setup:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nutrition & Biosecurity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Feed requirements change as your flock grows. Start with a high-protein starter feed for young chicks, then transition to a grower or layer feed as they mature. Free-ranging birds will happily supplement their diet with bugs and forage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Biosecurity<\/strong> is essential to protect your flock from diseases like Avian Influenza, which can be carried by wild birds. Minimize contact between your flock and wild waterfowl, keep feeding areas enclosed, and practice good sanitation by washing your hands and boots before and after handling your birds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Learn More<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you would like more information or wish to attend our upcoming Backyard Flock Management Course<\/strong> on October 6th<\/strong>, contact the Monroe County Extension office!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n