More and more us Aussies are flocking to embrace a more organic lifestyle by keeping their very own hens or backyard chickens. Are you thinking about joining them but currently nesting on the fence? How much does it cost to keep chickens? How can you be sure that chickens are the right pets for you? ChickenGuard is here to help!
There’s no doubt about it though, the true cost of owning chickens can mount up. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of all the facts and figures before you commit to filling a coop with your very own small troupe.
So, how much can you expect to shell out as a fledgling chicken owner? We can reveal that the approximate initial outlay for keeping chickens (based on a flock of four) is over $1,800!
Those tempted by owning chickens can expect to pay $25 – $40 for each of their hens, although rare breeds can be considerably more. The next item on the shopping list is a coop, easily fitted with a ChickenGuard automatic door opener for maximum security and convenience. The girls will also need some space to eggcercise so allow another $120 for a chicken run.
Add to that bedding at $30, plus another $120 for nest boxes, $80 on a heatlamp to keep them cosy and $135 on lighting, grit ($50), feed and supplements ($140) and something to dispense them from alongside fresh water ($150) plus a decent pair of wellies ($70), the cost of being a responsible owner soon rises.
After the initial outlay, chicken owners will also need to bear in mind ongoing costs for food and grit, as well as healthcare needs such as red mite spray ($60) to keep their hens on top form. And for those planning to welcome their feathered friends into their home, it might be worth picking up some chicken nappies ($40) to keep mess to a minimum.
Once you’ve shelled out on everything you need to keep the girls happily laying, the last thing you want is for them is to fall fowl of a sneaky fox. That’s why we created the first automated chicken coop door opener seven years ago, and why today we offer a whole range of automatic chicken coop door openers and doors to benefit chicken owners across the world.
Are you considering owning chickens for the first time and have a burning question? Please do get in touch via our Australian Facebook profile and our wonderful community will be happy to help.
