Winterize Your Coop Now

Protect Your Chickens From These 3 Winter Hazards

Marans - a City in France *and* one of the most popular #backyardchicken...

The Benefits Of Raising Your Own Chickens In This Economic Climate

The Grocery-Store Reality

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Egg prices have been anything but stable: in January 2025 the national average topped four-and-a-half dollars a dozen, more than sixty percent higher than 2021. Even when wholesale costs dip for a month or two, the savings rarely show up on retail shelves right away. Add general inflation—feed, produce, utilities—and many families are hunting for permanent ways to trim their food bills and gain a little peace of mind.

Six Ways Backyard Birds Fight Inflation

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Stable Egg Costs

Once your coop and equipment are paid for, most small flocks lay eggs for roughly a dollar-and-a-half a dozen in feed. That can save a typical family well over a hundred dollars a year whenever store prices hover above four dollars.

Premium Nutrition

Fresh, yard-to-table eggs routinely test higher in vitamin D and omega-3 fats and lower in saturated fat than supermarket cartons. Better nutrition at a lower price is hard to beat.

Free Fertilizer

Ten hens can produce seven-hundred pounds of manure a year—black-gold compost that would cost fifty to eighty dollars if you bought it in bags.

Natural Pest Control

Chickens devour ticks, grasshoppers, and other garden pests. Fewer bugs mean less money spent on sprays and traps.

Mental-Health ROI

“Chicken TV” is real. Research shows that caring for animals lowers stress and boosts mood—benefits hard to put a dollar value on, but priceless all the same.

Micro-Income Streams

Even a half-dozen extra cartons a week can turn into twelve hundred dollars a year at five dollars per dozen. Hatching chicks, selling compost tea, or leasing a rooster for breeding all add to the bottom line.

What It Really Costs to Start

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A basic six-hen setup breaks down like this:

• Coop kit: about $300-400
• Build your own from recycled and reclaimed material as inexpensively as $0
• Feeder and waterer: $45-55
• Bedding and misc. supplies: $40-60

The cost of birds in your area will vary greatly! You can purchase "battery hens" for as little as $5 each in some areas of the country. These are generally hens who are around 2 years old that are being released from an egg farm. They may look ragged because of their crowded living conditions but they are usually disease-free at the time they are released for sale.

You can also order started pullets from a hatchery. A pullet is a young hen who is approaching the age to start laying (about 5-6 months). "Started" means they're old enough to be put into a coop and run outside and no longer have to be treated like chicks. Started Pullets can get pricey, especially for highly sought-after breeds. You will be looking at a cost of $20-40 per pullet, plus higher shipping because they aren't little day-old chicks. The trade-off is that you don't need the expense of a brooder, heat sources, chick feed and vitamins, or chick-sized feeders and waters. Pullets are ready to go into a regular coop, eat good ol' layer feed, and will begin producing eggs for you much sooner.

Bird-buying Caveats

Be wary of "sale barn" chickens if there is no county tester present at the sale. The same goes for "flea market" chickens. If the chickens are being sold at a large gathering without being tested before admittance, you don't want to buy those birds.

If you are completely new to chickens, you may also want to steer clear of individual sellers offering "straight run" chicks. Stick to buying breeds that are easily sexable by nature - meaning the males have a distinctively different looking set of feathers right off the bat. If you are raising your chickens in an urban backyard, the last thing you need is an accidental rooster or three.

Monthly expenses

Good layer feed, grit, oyster shell, and small incidentals run a little over thirty dollars for six hens. Under those assumptions, most households hit break-even in roughly eleven months—and even sooner if they sell a few surplus eggs and keep unnecessary treat purchases to a minimum. 😉 

If your yard is large enough to let your birds roam it freely once or twice a week, you can save on feed costs as they gobble up insects and weedy plants. (Be aware they will also eat your grass!)

Food Security and Community

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Remember the avian-flu egg shortage back in 2022? Supply shocks are less scary when breakfast is clucking in your own backyard. Extra cartons make welcome gifts for neighbors, and many will happily chip in for feed once they taste the difference.

Some friendly neighbors might establish co-operative chicken coops, where the coop resides in one specific yard, but the surrounding neighbors who enjoy the eggs all regularly chip in for feed, supplies, and maintenance in exchange for the eggs they get. This can help offset some of the ongoing labor and costs incurred when keeping the flock.

Controlling Costs

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Controlling the costs of your urban coop is relatively easy because in an urban setting, you really can't entertain the idea of breeding up your own special flock of marvelous magical chickens in every color. Seriously, you're going to be limited by municipal guidelines. This protects you from "chicken math." 

However, if you are suburban and don't have these limits imposed on you by a higher authority, it's up to you to control the urge to add "just one more breed" to your coop. Almost everything about keeping chickens increases exponentially - from how many chickens you have to how much water they use daily to how stinky the coop is. Define the size of your self-sufficiency project flock before you start, and stick to it. Don't adopt anyone's rejects or pick up "the last" turkey poults at Tractor Supply, even if it only costs 50 cents. 

Once you figure out how many chickens you can reasonably afford to keep during the winter months or molts, when they take a break from laying, stick to that number of birds, no matter the temptation. That's the best way to hit your eventual break-even point.

Ready to Get Started?

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Valley Hatchery’s selection of pullets includes hardy, heat-tolerant layers that thrive in most U.S. climates, shipping out at around 15 weeks of age, which means you only have to wait a few short weeks before they start laying regularly. Take control of your grocery bill, boost your family’s nutrition, and enjoy the daily therapy of tending a flock that pays you back in fresh eggs every morning.

Visit ValleyHatchery.com today and let’s make your coop-dreams a reality! 🐔🐣🥚

Top Three Things to Do for Your Chicken Flock During Severe Thunderstorm Season

When severe thunderstorm season rolls in, it's not just us humans who need to hunker down and ride out the storm—our feathered friends need a little extra TLC, too. Here are the top three things you can do to ensure your backyard chicken flock stays safe and comfortable during those turbulent weather days. 

 1. Secure the Coop First things first, make sure your chicken coop is storm-ready. Here's how: 

•  Check for Leaks: A watertight roof is a must. Inspect for any leaks or weak spots, and patch them up before the storm hits. 
• Reinforce the Structure: High winds can cause damage to poorly built coops. Ensure the coop is sturdy, with no loose panels or weak hinges. Adding extra bracing or using heavy-duty screws can make a big difference. 
• Elevate the Coop: If your area is prone to flooding, consider elevating your coop on cinder blocks or a raised platform. This helps keep your chickens’ living space dry and prevents water damage. 

2. Provide a Safe Shelter Your chickens need a safe and cozy spot to ride out the storm. Here’s what you can do: 

•  Bedding: Lay down extra straw or wood shavings. It helps keep the coop dry and provides insulation against the cold and damp. 
• Ventilation: While it's crucial to keep rain out, proper ventilation is still important to avoid humidity build-up inside the coop. Ensure there’s enough airflow without creating drafts. 
• Secure Doors and Windows: Double-check that all doors and windows are securely closed and locked. This keeps the wind and rain out and prevents any potential escapees if the storm scares them. 

3. Stock Up on Supplies Being prepared with the right supplies can make a big difference during and after a storm: 

•  Food and Water: Ensure you have enough feed and clean water stored in a safe, dry place. Heavy rains can contaminate water sources, so having an extra supply on hand is essential. 
• First Aid Kit: Keep a chicken first aid kit ready for any minor injuries or health issues that might arise. Include items like antiseptic, bandages, and a poultry wound spray. 
• Emergency Power: If you rely on electric heat sources in your coop, have a backup plan for power outages. Battery-operated heaters or even a stash of warm blankets can help in a pinch. 

Bonus Tips 

Routine Checks: After the storm passes, inspect the coop and run for any damage or potential hazards. Clear any debris that might have blown in, and make sure everything is secure. 

Calm and Comfort: Thunderstorms can be scary for chickens. Spend a little extra time with your flock to reassure them. Your presence can be calming and help reduce their stress. 

Looking for tips for hot weather? We've got you covered - check out our Flockology article.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your flock safe and sound during severe thunderstorm season. With these tips, you can ensure your chickens weather the storm comfortably and stay healthy and happy. Stay safe and happy chicken keeping!

9 Tips for Raising Urban Chicks

It's easy to get wrapped up in the excitement around the idea of raising your own chickens as pets or for eggs, but there's a little more to it than jumping on the internet and ordering your day-old hatchlings. We've put together a to-the-point bullet list of 9 tips to help you prepare properly for adding chickens to your urban or suburban backyard.

1. Check Local Regulations:

   • Before you embark on your urban chicken-keeping adventure, familiarize yourself with local regulations. Some areas may have restrictions on the number of chickens allowed, coop placement, or even the keeping of roosters.
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2. Choose Suitable Breeds:

   • Opt for chicken breeds that adapt well to urban environments. Typically, smaller, docile and quieter breeds are preferable. Consider popular choices like Rhode Island Reds, Australorps, or Silkies. Bantam sizes are very popular for backyard coops.
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3. Space-Efficient Coop Design:

   • Design a compact and efficient chicken coop to maximize space utilization. Ensure it's well-ventilated, secure, and easy to clean. Utilize vertical space with nesting boxes and roosts to make the most of limited room.
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4. Noise Management:

   • Select breeds known for their quieter nature to maintain harmony with neighbors. Additionally, providing environmental enrichment and keeping the coop clean can minimize any potential disturbances.
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5. Secure Outdoor Area (if possible):

   • If space allows, create a secure outdoor run for your chickens. This provides them with fresh air, sunlight, and the opportunity to exhibit natural behaviors. Make sure it's predator-proof to keep your feathered friends safe.
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6. Proper Waste Management:

   • Implement effective waste management practices to avoid odors and maintain a clean environment. Regularly clean the coop, and consider composting chicken litter for an eco-friendly disposal solution.
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7. Health Monitoring:

   • Keep a close eye on your chickens' health. Regularly check for signs of illness, pests, or injuries. A proactive approach can prevent issues and ensure a happy, healthy flock.
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8. Community Engagement:

   • Engage with your urban community about your chicken-keeping plans. Share information about your coop design, breeds chosen, and the benefits of having urban chickens. This proactive communication can foster positive relationships with neighbors.
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9. Educate Yourself:

   • Stay informed about best practices in urban chicken keeping. Continuously educate yourself on topics like nutrition, coop management, and behavior. Join local or online poultry groups to exchange experiences and gather valuable insights.

By following these tips, you can embark on a successful urban chicken-keeping journey that not only benefits you but also contributes positively to your community. Happy clucking in the heart of the city!

Tips for Happy, Healthy Mail-Order Hatchlings

Hey Urban Chicken Enthusiasts!

Are you excited for chick season at Valley Hatchery? Here are some fun and handy tips to ensure you have an egg-cellent season!

Perfect Timing: Hatch season is from February to October. It's like catching the first sun rays of spring – the earlier, the better! Pre-orders begin in December. They fly out the coop quicker then a hen chasing a bug, so get in early!

Shipping Smarts: Make sure your shipping details are spot on. On the big day, why not give your local post office a friendly call? It's a great way to let them know your feathery bundle is on its way. We do our bit by putting your number on the label, but a little extra caution never hurts.

Ready, Set, Go on Arrival Day: Be on your toes when your chicks are arriving. No time for slow-pokes! Zip down to the post office as soon as they ring. Your chicks will be eager to settle into their new cozy spot – the brooder.

Brooder Prep 101: Set up a welcoming brooder before your chicks hatch. Cramped spaces are a no-go – think roomy and comfortable. Use a heat lamp for that snug warmth and secure it well. Location is key – a stable, warm spot is ideal, away from any quirky temperature changes.

Chick Health Tip: Here's a neat trick – apple cider vinegar with the mother is like a secret potion for stressed or sluggish chicks. Mix 4 tablespoons per quart of water for 3-5 days. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep their tummies happy.

Don't forget to check out our chick care guide. It's packed with useful info, not just a peck-and-go read. Whether you're a chicken whisperer or just starting out, it’s your go-to guide for a cracking good chick season!