If you’ve been thinking about raising chickens or looking for ways to save money on eggs, here are some tips from Viviana Okakpu of Advocates for Urban Agriculture, who also keeps five chickens 🐥
Take Advantage of the Law
Chicago has some of the most permissive urban livestock laws on the books. But there are some limitations. Chicagoans can’t slaughter animals at home, and animals can’t make “excessive noise” beyond 10 consecutive minutes.
Check In With Your Neighbors
Yes, you can keep roosters, but Okapu reminds you to be mindful of how these crowing boys can make a lot of noise. Check in with your community, whether you’re getting the guys or the gals. Okapu says to consider sharing the wealth (aka eggs), too.
What to Feed Your Chickens
Okakpu feeds their chickens an organic diet of grains and various seeds mixed with oyster or egg shells. “They are one of the most efficient composters,” Okapu told us. And always ensure the birds have plenty of fresh water available.
Commit to the Lifestyle
Caring for chickens is a daily task. Unless you have an automatic chicken coop opener and closer, plan to wake up with the chickens! Similarly, plan your evenings around closing their coop to prevent predators from harming them.
Finally, Okapu has some fabulous names for their chickens. I say, invest a little love in your chickens, too 🧡
➕ Not a chicken fan? Listen for the other animals you’re allowed to have in your backyard and the regulations you should know about.
