Amen to that. Most of the criticisms reflect an assumption that they'll raise birds the way we do here but our methods are the exception not the rule. I've never seen any chicken swings or chicken diapers in underdeveloped countries. That's only seen here in the US. Most people that raise birds in poor countries do so by any means they have available and they're very successful at it. I know people personally that do it for a living on a small scale and it works well.
Such a good insight.
Chickat you pointed out something I totally forgot until I read your post. That was the part about the New Zealand farmer raising chickens just for the manure. Believe it or not that was the only reason I originally started my flock. Vegetable gardening and small scale farming have been my primary interests all my life and I always wanted chickens for their high quality manure. After starting the flock I really got hooked on them for their other contributions as they are the most productive backyard asset I have. Even after giving them first class care with all the associated costs the way most do here in this country, we still come out on top. In our case the eggs are actually the least of their contributions, and we make about $40 a week selling the excess (10 dozen). That's more than enough to pay for the amount of feed they consume. The high quality manure is free and I could use more of it. I haven't seen a scorpion yet this year and I'm sure I know where they went. Since learning a lot more about them I bought a quality rooster last Sunday and we're working on another coop and run for breeding. The point is I just can't say enough good about them. I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir on this website but my Mom said she told me so and that her family and the families that lived around them in western PA never could've survived the depression without chickens. To me it's just pointing out the obvious.Such a good insight.
And -- I did put in wrong information - I see that the Gates Foundation is using Heifer International.
People who would need to be self-sufficient would be wise to keep chickens..and possibly rabbits. -- As far as getting bang-for-the-buck. chickens are one of the very best investments. Reading some of the internet links discussing and criticizing Bill Gates for the gesture -- -- like the one with a 5-year chicken farmer or other chicken farmers that criticize the idea -- seems almost like they are factory farm approach. -- The fear of chicken poop -- is kind of amusing. There is a New Zealander - Jonathan White with an approach to intensive gardening -- that would keep chickens JUST FOR THE FERTILIZER that they provide. (once composted) --- And chickens can reduce the insect population!!
Jonathan White in New Zealand
http://veggrowing.com/jonathan-white/
The whole idea of 'uncle Sam needs you to raise chickens' -- that was popular during WWII -- people now-a-days cannot even imagine things like gas rationing and food/meat rationing. -- Those with their own livestock were able to help support family and friends. It is easier to get food from your chickens - it's more reliable and a bit less seasonal than gardening -- sometimes even the best have 'crop failures' -- Yes, chickens can die -- but in the long haul -- if you needed to keep yourself and your family alive - IMO
(like when the zombie apocalypse that is supposed to come...)
Chickens are your best long-term bet -- with good management -- and that's another reason why you see them so often - as you said in countries where refrigeration, electricity, grocery stores etc. are uncommon.
Interesting...and it reminds me of the 'marshmallow study'
Hi yeshuarose,
So many times - I say some things that I think are so witty and so funny -- I have noticed -- and then later when I go back I can see how they could be construed as being just mean.
