Keeping Backyard Chickens

A few hens give you eggs, pest control, manure for compost, and endless entertainment.

Which breed suits your backyard?

Climate is the biggest factor across the US. Pick your region and what matters most, and we'll rank the breeds that fit.

Where are you? What matters most?

Do chickens pay for themselves?

With egg prices where they are, a small flock often covers its own feed. Put in your numbers and see.

How many hens? Egg price at your local store ($/dozen) Layer feed price ($/50lb bag) Kitchen scraps offsetting feed: 25%

Track your flock in Planting Season. Egg logging and charts, feed costs, a breed guide tuned to your region and heat alerts for the coop, alongside the full garden planner for your part of the country. Start free →

Choosing breeds

In the warm South and Southwest, favor heat-tolerant breeds with large combs that shed heat: Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, Australorps, Easter Eggers and the like. Avoid heavily feathered or tiny-comb breeds in extreme heat.

The coop

Allow about 4 sq ft per bird inside and 8-10 sq ft in the run.
Prioritize shade and ventilation over insulation in hot climates; airflow keeps birds alive in summer.
Predator-proof with hardware cloth (not chicken wire) and a secure latch.
One nest box per 3-4 hens, plus a roost bar.

Feeding & care

Layer feed plus grit and a calcium source (oyster shell). Kitchen and garden scraps are great extras, see what chickens can and can't eat. Always provide cool, clean water, doubly important in heat.

Heat is the #1 risk in the South. Deep shade, cool water, frozen treats and good airflow prevent heat stress. Watch for panting and lethargy on hot afternoons.

Their bedding and manure are a prime compost ingredient, closing the loop back to the garden.