Starting a homestead is a life-changing decision that is exciting, yet at the same time can be very overwhelming. Especially if you are new to the world of farming. You may be wondering, "Where do I begin?" We are here to help you make this journey as easy as possible, hence our name OverEZ and the EZ Homestead Journal! One of the first overwhelming decisions you will make is which livestock to start with. We may be biased, however, it is true that chickens are the easiest livestock to begin with as well as one of the most rewarding for beginners to the farmer's way of life. Not only are chickens relatively low-maintenance, but they also provide fresh eggs daily for your family. Here are some more reasons why we think you should choose chickens as your first livestock to start your homestead journey with.
Young Chickens Inside OverEZ Chicken Coop

1. Chickens Are Low Cost and Low Maintenance

    One of the biggest advantages with chickens is that they are relatively inexpensive to obtain and care for. If you prefer not to go through the chick-raising phase, you can even purchase adult chickens for a reasonable price! You don't need a lot of specialized equipment to get started. All you need really is a coop and run set up, and the rest is quite simple. Just daily food, water, and egg collection, then some periodic cleaning. Compared to other livestock, for example, cows and horses, chickens are a breeze to care for! This is why we are not alone when we say that chickens are the best starter livestock for beginner homesteaders!

          2. A Source of Food for Your Family Chickens are very productive animals!

    Some breeds like the Leghorn can produce almost an egg a day! There is also the option to get chickens for meat. In addition, chickens produce manure that can be used as natural fertilizer for your vegetable garden! As you can see, there are many ways that chickens are a very valuable and sustainable addition to your homestead.

          3. Adaptable to a Wide Range of Environments

    Chickens are also very adaptable animals! As long as they have shelter from extreme heat or cold, they thrive in most places! All you need to do is choose the right breed for your climate. There are a variety of chicken breeds, some that have a higher heat tolerance, and others who do well with very cold temperatures. Do your research to find out the best breed for your location.

           4. Fun and Enjoyable to Care For

    Ask anyone who has had chickens, and they will tell you that these little animals will bring you so much entertainment! Each one with their own unique personality, your chickens can keep you entertained for hours! If you are new to the homestead journey, your chickens will help with the stress of the transition to this new way of life by making you laugh and putting a smile on your face. They can even be trained to come when called.

    In conclusion, chickens are an excellent choice for the beginner homesteader. We encourage you to do a bit of research to find the right breed for you, and once you get your chickens, you will be able to provide your family with a nutritious source of protein and loads of love and laughter!