Backyard Fowl Keepers

Hello, fellow chicken keepers!

I love keeping chickens and dont expect to make a profit, but Id like to find ways to lower my costs per dozen eggsideally below grocery store prices. Im not factoring in the coop and run since that was a personal project.

Right now, I have seven pullets (various breeds) and one rooster. Six are laying, and Im averaging about three eggs per day. They have a secure run and free-range in the afternoons, but with winter here, theres not much for them to forage.

I currently feed an 18% layer ration with free-choice oyster shell and offer some scratch in the morning.

What are some ways youve successfully cut feed costs without sacrificing health or egg production? Would love to hear your tips!

Feeding high-protein food scraps like scrambled eggs or cooked meat can reduce the amount of commercial feed they need. Just be careful not to overdo it.

You can cut feed waste by using a no-spill feeder or raising it to shoulder height. Chickens love to scratch feed out and waste it otherwise.

If grocery store eggs are your price benchmark, keep in mind they're often lower quality. Your fresh eggs have better nutrition and taste,worth a little extra cost!

If you have space, consider raising black soldier fly larvae. High in protein and almost free to produce, they can be a great supplement.

It's tough to beat grocery store egg prices completely, but backyard eggs are higher quality, and the joy of keeping chickens makes it worth the extra cost!150 Crushed parakeet seed might be a bit too hard for their tiny beaks. I'd suggest finely chopped scrambled eggs or mealworms instead,both are packed with protein!

If you have local mills or farm co-ops, check if they sell bulk feed. Sometimes you can get high-quality feed at a lower price than name brands.

Have you considered growing some of their feed? Things like duckweed, mealworms, or even sprouted grains can help reduce costs.

In winter, I sprout wheat or barley for my hens. Sprouted grains are more nutritious and stretch feed further. Have you looked into fodder systems?

In my experience, keeping a rooster doesn't add much benefit if you're only looking for egg production. If feed costs are a concern, that might be something to consider.