THE DIRT CHEAP GARDENER
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Raising Chickens
Raising Chickens
Chickens
are one of the easiest, least, expensive animals to raise. They're
hardy, don't require much space or food, and will provide you with a
high-protein, nourishing food source and free fertilizer for your
garden. (They also will contribute in the pest control department.)
According to a recent article in Mother Earth News, the typical eggs sold in the supermarket are nutritionally inferior to free range eggs that are raised on pasture. Pasture raised eggs may contain:
1/3 less cholesterol
1/4 less saturated fat
2/3 more vitamin A
2 times more omega 3 fatty acids
3 times more vitamin E
7 times m0re beta carotene
Many urban areas have recently reformed city codes to allow chickens.
The minimum space requirement for chickens is about 5 or 6 square feet per bird. They need a place to roost out of the wind, and a little outdoor yard space.
Food requirements: pasture, insects, greens, cracked corn and a balanced poultry feed ration.
