Raising Backyard Chickens for Eggs: A Beginner’s Guide with Soaked and Fermented Feed

Should You Keep a Rooster?

Roosters add vibrancy to your flock with their colorful feathers and can protect free-ranging hens. However, they may become aggressive, especially around children, and their crowing can disturb neighbors. Always check local regulations for livestock and discuss plans with neighbors to avoid conflicts.

Preparing for Baby Chicks

Raising chicks is a joy, filled with adorable moments. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Brooder Setup

A brooder keeps chicks safe and warm for 5-6 weeks until they’re ready to move outside. I used a free cardboard watermelon box from the market, but large plastic containers or galvanized tubs work too. At 2-3 weeks, when feathers emerge and weather is mild, let chicks explore a secure outdoor area for an hour or two, ensuring food and water are available.

2. Heat Source

Chicks need warmth. Heat lamps are common but pose fire risks if not secured. I prefer ceramic infrared heat bulbs with porcelain sockets for warmth without bright light. Radiant heat brooders are safer, energy-efficient, and let chicks self-regulate by moving in and out of the heat.

3. Chick Feeder and Waterer

Choose feeders and waterers that fit regular-mouth canning jars—perfect if you have extras at home. They’re practical and easy to clean.

4. Chick Feed and Grit

Opt for organic, non-medicated starter feed for the first 8 weeks. I use Scratch and Peck’s organic feed for healthy, organic hens. Chick grit helps digestion by providing roughage to break down food. Small urban flocks rarely need medicated feed, but research to decide what’s best for you.

5. Bedding

Organic rye straw with dried grasses worked wonders for my chicks, aiding balance and pecking instincts. Kiln-dried wood shavings or sand are great alternatives. Avoid newspaper alone—it’s slippery and can harm leg development.

6. Sourcing Chicks

Buy chicks from local feed stores in spring or fall. Spring chicks transition outdoors without extra heat, while fall chicks grow indoors during winter, boosting egg production in warmer months. Online suppliers or local homesteading groups are also great sources—check Facebook for nearby communities.

Choosing the Right Chicken Breeds

Select breeds based on your goals:

• Egg Layers: Expect 6 eggs per week in spring/summer, dropping to ~3 in winter.
• Dual-Purpose Breeds: Ideal for both eggs and meat.
• Meat Breeds: Hybridized for fast growth but less focused on egg production.

Moving Pullets to the Coop

Once feathered (around 5-6 weeks), pullets are ready to move outside. Here’s what you need:

1. Coop and Run

Chicken coops vary from mobile tractors to custom builds. Tractors are great for urban yards, letting hens scratch fresh ground. Coops should include nest boxes for egg-laying and roosts for sleeping. Build your own using online plans or buy pre-made coops. Avoid used coops unless thoroughly inspected for mites or lice, which can persist for months.

2. Chicken Feed

Switch to grower feed from 8-18 weeks, then layer feed after 18 weeks. Oyster shells provide calcium for strong eggshells. I love Scratch and Peck’s organic, non-GMO, corn- and soy-free layer feed, which ferments well for added nutrition.

3. Feed Storage

Store feed in a galvanized trash can to deter pests like rats or raccoons. Plastic containers are less secure and easily chewed.

4. Bedding Options

Straw or wood shavings are easy to clean and can be composted for garden use. Sand in coops or runs wicks moisture, stays dry, and doubles as a dust bath.

5. Feeder and Waterer

I scatter feed for scratching but use a shallow dish for fermented feed when I’m away. Nipple waterers keep water clean and hold plenty. Classic waterers work too.

6. Ceramic Eggs

At ~22 weeks, place ceramic eggs in nest boxes to train free-ranging hens to lay there, preventing eggs from being scattered. Remove them once hens consistently lay in the boxes.

When to Expect Eggs

The thrill of finding your first egg is unmatched! Expect eggs around 23-25 weeks, starting small and sporadic but becoming daily. Eggs vary in size, shape, and color by breed. Chickens lay well for 3-4 years, slowing after, and live 5-7+ years with good care. Add new chicks every few years to maintain production.

Sustainable Chicken Care

I feed my hens organic, non-GMO, corn- and soy-free grain from Scratch and Peck, soaked and fermented to boost nutrition and yield. They also love kitchen scraps, homegrown kale, and treats like mealworms, grubs, herbs, or cracked corn. This varied diet ensures nutrient-dense, flavorful eggs.

Egg-Based Recipe Ideas

Use your fresh eggs in these delicious dishes:

• 12 Egg Quiche: A flaky, lard-crust classic.
• Golden Milk Pots De Crème: Creamy, spiced custard.
• Sourdough Rich Dough: Soft, sweet braided bread.

Final Thoughts

Raising backyard chickens is a simple, joyful way to connect with your food. From setting up a brooder to collecting your first eggs, each step builds a sustainable, family-friendly homestead. Try the fermented feed recipe for healthier hens and richer eggs!