With the national average price for a dozen eggs at nearly $4, more people are becoming inclined to raise chickens at home. However, before purchasing chickens, it is important to consider the costs and responsibilities associated with raising them.
Experts say that chickens begin laying eggs at six months and do not require the fertilization of a rooster unless baby chicks are desired. However, they also notes that three chickens on average would go through a 50-pound bag of feed in 20 days, which would cost about $163 every six months. Additionally, the cost of care, including the coop and fencing, must also be taken into account.
The founders of Coop, an Austin-based business that offers courses in raising chickens, claim that homegrown eggs can boast more beta carotene and vitamin B, and less cholesterol, than store-bought.
However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and factor in the responsibilities of raising healthy hens before investing in chickens.
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