The allure of backyard chickens

If you’ve ever dreamed about raising chickens but don’t necessarily live anywhere near the country, you’re not alone. More and more of these dreams about cluckers in the city are coming true, as backyard poultry farms are growing in popularity, especially among fans of sustainable living who happen to live in more urban environments. “Their quirky personalities and charming good looks make them barnyard favorites,” says Lu Broadsword, North Idaho Fair poultry superintendent. The North Idaho Fair opens Wednesday, Aug. 25, in Coeur d’Alene, and Broadsword predicts an increase in chicken entries, as people are growing more concerned about growth hormones and preservatives, and want eggs that are great-tasting and nutritious. This week’s national recall of eggs over salmonella concerns certainly won’t help people’s concerns about what goes into non-local eggs. Local chicken suppliers have told Broadsword that they have had a hard time keeping chicks in stock this last spring. “Families are learning how to care for their feathered friends, and, at the same time, discovering a wonderful hobby,” says Broadsword. Anyone who has had the opportunity to savor fresh eggs knows there is a big difference between homegrown and what’s available at the grocery store. “Fresh eggs are one big advantage with backyard chickens,” says Broadsword. Athol resident and registered nurse Kim Moors is someone who jumped into raising chickens this year. “Why not raise your own chickens and get your own fresh eggs?” says Moors, who also likes the fact that she actually knows how her chickens are raised, fed and cared for. Six weeks into the endeavor, Moors is enjoying the experience. She has her favorite hen and says the way the chickens interact is “pure entertainment.” “I am amazed at far they can see,” Broadsword says with a chuckle. “When they want to chase a bug, they are out the coop door in a streak.” According to Broadsword you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to keep chickens. There is some education involved, but the basics are easy to learn and there are a lot of inexpensive resources to help. “Children and grandchildren get a wonderful education when they care for the flock,” says Broadsword, “and they develop a lifelong love of backyard chickens.” Backyard chickens also help children learn where eggs come from—which is a good lesson. The North Idaho Fair and Rodeo has 35 classes of chickens. The whole poultry department consists of chickens, turkeys, ducks, bantam ducks, geese, pigeons, and doves. The fair poultry department awards include singles, pens or trios in each section; special premium awards to first and second entries that the judges determine warrant special recognition; and a grand champion award. “The grand champion exhibit is different every year, as the judges change,” says Broadsword. “They each have their own personal preferences.” With the interest in living “green” and cleaning up our environment, Broadsword often hears the question —“How green are chickens?” According to Broadsword, chickens eat just about everything except onions and potato peels; their droppings are great fertilizer or base for a compost pile; they eat bugs so they are a natural pest control; they eat weeds; and they can be raised eaten and disposed of without contributing to the landfill. “That makes them about as green as you can get,” says Broadsword.