Inflation has been an ongoing concern for Kentuckians. The price of eggs recently surged but has since come down. While the prices have dropped somewhat, they're still higher than many people want.
A growing trend has people buying and raising their chickens to produce eggs for their own use.
In an interview with Eastern Standard, University of Kentucky Poultry Extension Project Manager Jackie Jacobs advised that people need to conduct thorough research before embarking on this venture, especially if they are not in a rural area.
“A lot of them think they can do it no matter what, but homeowners associations override any county or city regulations. If you don't have a homeowners association, contact your extension office to see if you're allowed.”
Jacobs said raising chickens is a serious commitment.
“Need to have someone who is able to take care of the birds, especially if they're egg laying, because you don't want to leave the eggs outside, especially if it's summer. It's a commitment, it's a financial commitment, it's a time commitment, it's three types of things you should think about before you get pets.”
Jacobs said not to expect eggs right away, especially if you're buying chicks. They can take 16 to 18 weeks depending on the breed, before they begin producing eggs.
Hear more with UK Poultry Extension Project Manager Jackie Jacobs later this week on Eastern Standard on WEKU.
