The concept of keeping chicken coops in urban backyards may seem outlandish at first glance, but upon further investigation, it becomes clear the notion is no stranger than owning any other pet. As local farmer, Jordan Maynard puts it, “If you can look after a hamster, you can look after a chicken.”
The Benefits of Keeping Chickens for City Slickers
In recent decades, many urban dwellers have drifted away from agrarian traditions – becoming largely dependent on supermarkets to stock and supply their nutritional needs. However, discerning consumers are beginning to question where their groceries come from and its quality. This trend is inspiring many to get their hands dirty and become their own food supplier. With homegrown veggies being the first step, taking eggs off the shopping list may very well be the next.
Maynard, an advocate for backyard chickens, says housing hens behind the home will bring city folk back in touch with the land, while offering a number of other benefits.
Nutritionally, the poultry will be healthy and organic – free of hormones and antibiotics. Environmentally, it reduces food miles, a subsequent advantage for the planet. Ethically, the practice ensures chickens are being treated properly, as opposed to living in substandard or confined conditions. Economically, it saves money by reducing the cost of buying eggs.
Though the price of purchasing chickens can vary depending on their breed and condition, a typical hen costs about $8. A bag of chicken feed for two hens runs at about $15 to $20 per year. And constructing a coop can also be relatively inexpensive, especially if done as a Do-It-Yourself project. When comparing these numbers to the $6 to $7 spent weekly on store-bought organic free-range eggs, the household savings are clear.
And if that isn’t reason enough, having hens in the yard can keep the garden looking trim and tidy. How so? Maynard says chickens love eating slugs, weeds and other pests, a frequent nuisance for many homeowners.
Common Concerns for First-time Chicken Farmers
Maynard says keeping hens is relatively low-maintenance, but adds "like any other animal, they are nevertheless a responsibility." To look after a small flock of hens, he estimates it should take about 5 minutes per day. Basic chores includes letting them out in the morning to be fed – and shutting them in at night to protect them from the elements and predators. A constant supply of food and fresh water is essential, and it’s imperative to collect their eggs to prevent hens from going broody.
The old adage "a clean home is a happy home" also applies to a chicken coop. Odour can become an issue if the enclosure is unclean. This could result in health problems for both hens and humans – and become a source of tension with neighbours. But, Maynard says, if the coop is cleaned before it starts to smell, problems should not ensue.
It’s a common misconception that chickens are noisy creatures. While their male counterpart – the rooster – is known for his indiscriminate crow, hens are generally quiet. For this reason, it’s possible the City of Vancouver is only considering hens for its backyard chicken initiative. The lack of rooster does not affect egg production, as hens are able to lay eggs normally without their presence.
A major worry with animal rearing is the risk of spreading disease. Maynard rebuffs the notion that urban chicken husbandry could result in the outbreak of viruses such as the Avian Flu. He clarifies that diseases like the Avian Flu thrive in dense populations, such as in commercial poultry barns. Maynard adds it’s unlikely that a diverse flock of two or three backyard hens, which are kept in open conditions and away from wild fowl, would be affected by the virus.
More Information about Backyard Chicken Farming in Vancouver
Currently, the backyard chicken bylaw has not gone into effect in the City of Vancouver, as guidelines for the policy are still being developed. However, it’s the intention of the Council to keep backyard hens for egg laying purposes only – not for slaughter. Further updates and details are available on the Vancouver’s Community Services and Social Policy website.
Meanwhile, Maynard offers workshops in Vancouver on backyard chicken keeping. Visit the Southlands Farms website for more information. To get a taste of his produce, stop in on one of his weekly Sunday markets in Southlands, where he sells organic eggs, as well as vegetables and fruits, all from his very own backyard.
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