How many chickens?

[12Chicksand1Lady]

How do you determine how many chickens you actually need? For eggs only.

we may have way more than really need. My husband said we should buy 6-8, i said 10 in case any didn't make it. His dad said go for 12, so that is what we have. I'm fine with having more, i can always give eggs to family and friends. Just wondering how much i am over doing it.

(Family of 4)

 

[Chickenlover720]

I got 10 the first time I got chicks. with that many we were able to have enough for my family of four and still be able to give some to friends and family. I don't think 12 is too many... but I also now have 22 chickens so... Good luck!! welcome to BYC as I see that you're fairly new!

 

[TwoCrows]

Some will lay daily, others every other day. It also depends on the breed you plan on keeping as some breeds are heavy layers, others not so much. I would plan on at least 8 to 10 chickens for a family of 4. You can always give the extra eggs away.

 

[Grits&Eggs]

My family plus all my neighbors and extended family (3 sister in laws and my boss) all get a dozen every week/2 weeks with the 6 austras and 2 mixed flock I have. One always seems to be broody but I usually get 7 or 8 eggs a day, they are only one year old. i just got four more chicks and expect to be adding to my network.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I guess I don't eat enough eggs! I have 7 chickens right now, only 5 are laying, and I've got over 2 dozen eggs in the fridge. I give away a dozen, maybe dozen and a half, each a week.