Considering Chickens

Wifey and I have been flirting with the idea of getting chickens for a few years.  Over the last month our interest has grown as we've had some issues with finding high quality organic eggs nearby.  Something about our trip last weekend sparked us to start actively working toward that goal.

On our way back Wifey was doing some research as I drove.  For type-A planner types like us, there's a lot to consider.  Breed, coop vs chicken tractor, where to put a coop if we use one, and how to take care of them when we're out of town are just a few things to evaluate.  After researching costs to buy coops (and evaluating quality of construction and materials), he put up a post on our development's Facebook page inquiring whether anyone knew of someone looking to unload a coop.

One of our friendly neighbors said he had an old coop that his flock had outgrown and he was willing to give it to us if we're interested.  We checked it out today.

In some ways, it's in good shape, but some parts need some work.  Apparently, he used it for a few years with no predators having had success getting to the flock.  Also, unlike a lot of the ones we found for sale online, it's made with actual lumber.

On our way back to the car, we were admiring his flock and newer coop.  Our neighbor pointed out a few of the niceties of the new coop and finally offered up the eggs that had been laid that afternoon.  You certainly don't get much fresher than that.