🐔 Raising Chickens on the Homestead: A Simple Start to Self-Sufficiency

Bringing chickens into your homestead is one of the easiest and most rewarding steps toward a more self-sufficient life. Whether you're looking for fresh eggs, natural pest control, or just a bit of country charm, chickens offer more than they take.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the basics of raising chickens, what I’ve learned from experience, and why they’re one of my favorite parts of homesteading life.

🏡 Why Chickens?

• Fresh Eggs Daily: There’s nothing like gathering eggs from your own hens in the morning.

• Natural Composters: Chickens love kitchen scraps and turn them into rich manure.

• Bug Control: They help keep your garden free from ticks and other pests.

• Simple to Care For: Compared to other livestock, chickens are low maintenance.

🐥 Getting Started

If you're new to raising chickens, start small—3 to 6 hens is perfect for a family. Here's what you'll need:

• A secure coop with nesting boxes and roosts

• An enclosed run or free-range space (depending on your land)

• Access to clean water and quality feed

• Protection from predators, especially at night

🧠 A Few Tips from My Experience

• Pick your breeds wisely: I love Rhode Island Reds and Buff Orpingtons for eggs and personality.

• Watch the weather: Chickens need shade in the summer and warmth in the winter.

• Routine = calm birds: Feeding and letting them out around the same time every day builds trust.

• Name them! You’d be surprised how much personality they have.

📽️ Watch the Video!

I’ve shared a full tour of my chicken setup, feeding routine, and some funny moments from the coop!👉 Watch the video here on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMENeed71gw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EvtOY5lhNXo)

❤️ Why I Love Having Chickens

It’s not just about the eggs or the chores. Chickens teach patience, rhythm, and connection with the natural world. Every day with them reminds me why I started this homestead journey in the first place.

💬 Do you have chickens? Or thinking of starting? I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer your questions in the comments below!