If you are a prepper, you probably are thinking about the best egg-laying chickens. Having your own chicken coop will make you more self-sustaining for food in an emergency. You will have eggs which are a wonderful food source and something you can use to barter.
If you have never owned chickens before, you may not realize different breeds of chickens produce different kinds and amounts of eggs. There are also other considerations when choosing a breed of chicken. While you might opt for a variety of chickens, it is crucial to have the right types of chickens so you will have eggs all year through.
Why are Chickens Good for Survival
Chickens are a great option to consider when prepping for an emergency.
Here is why:
1. They are able to produce eggs that are nutrient and protein-rich.
Keeping a few chickens in your backyard will produce eggs for you and your family. What a wonderful way to be self-sufficient for food.
2. Chickens are easy to care for.
Chickens are truly easy to take care of. Essentially all you have to do is gather eggs daily, fill their food and water containers a couple of times a week and change their bedding each month.
3. Chickens make a good pet.
Each chicken has its own unique personality which makes them a good pet. Most likely, you’ll end up naming them and treating them like a pet even if that was not your priority in getting them in the first place.
4. Chickens are low cost.
Generally speaking, the investment made into purchasing the chickens, building the coop, and buying food and supplies is relatively low. The return on investment is great as you will most likely get enough eggs to feed your family and potentially more to sell or barter with.
5. Chickens produce fertilizer which is great for your garden.
Composting is a wonderful way to use chicken manure and even the eggshells. You’ll have a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to add to your vegetable garden. Win-win!
6. Chickens eat weeds and bugs.
Keep in mind that chickens eat leaves, weeds and bugs which can prove to be helpful as you keep a survival garden. They also aerate the soil as they peck and scratch.
What Factors to Consider When Choosing Egg-Laying Chickens
When planning your chicken coop, you want a healthy, happy, and egg-producing flock. When you are researching best egg-laying chickens, you should consider the following:
- number and color of eggs produced
- breed’s temperament
- breed’s noise level
- adaptability to confinement
- preferred climate
Eggs
Generally speaking, larger birds lay fewer eggs and smaller birds lay smaller eggs. If you’re a prepper and you are in it for the eggs, consider our list so that you get a lot of eggs. Most chickens will produce white and brown eggs but there are some chickens that make other colored eggs, such as the Ameraucanas that produce blue eggs.
Temperament
The temperament or disposition of a breed should be something that you think about. Some chickens like to be handled and petted, others are more skittish. Chickens have personalities and it is a good idea to read up on the breeds to get a good fit for you.
Noise
We all know about a rooster’s call but you should know that chickens are noisy. When a hen lays its eggs, they are at their loudest and can be the same decibel as a human conversation. Some breeds are quieter than others.
Confinement
Some breeds prefer free-range while others will want to stay in the coop. You should consider your space and preference. Keep in mind area preditors when planning how you will confine your birds.
Climate
Generally speaking, chickens are hardy and can handle a variety of climates. If you do live someplace where there you have extreme weather conditions, hot or cold, you might have to consider specific breeds.
Which Chickens are the Best?
Conclusion
You are now well on your way to making the decision on what are the best egg-laying chickens. You know what to consider when purchasing chickens and a bit more as to what to expect. Adding a chicken coop for eggs is a wonderful addition to your survival plans.