Oh, just want to write this out for myself. I have 34 hens. Some are over 3 years old now. My chickens all started out as pets (that provide me with breakfast!) The chickens became my favorite hobby and provides entertainment. The chickens provide our renters with eggs and entertainment also. But, they didn't 'pay' for themselves until this year when I had enough eggs to start selling at farmers market. Then, my chickens also became a mini business. Well, so now my dilemma. My older chickens are only laying one egg every 7 - 10 days. I also have one young silkie who hasn't laid an egg in months. Should I keep them as the pets they are (and keep feeding them, which isn't a good business move) or should I sell them and just keep growing out new ones? Ugh, I would feel really guilty to sell my pets just because they are getting old. I certainly wouldn't do that to any cat or dog (or husband!)! I have a dog that is almost 16 and has some issues, but it never crosses my mind to get rid of him.....sweet little Irwin! But what about chickens? Who would buy a hen over 3 years old? Yeah, someone who would eat them, I'm sure. And, can I do that to my 'pets?" Does anyone know anyone who has a huge farm that wouldn't mind more chickens even if they are older? I know if I take them to auction, there are no questions asked. I could get $10 - 20 each for them. May do that if I decide to sell off the older ones. It's just that I can't keep adding new chickens forever and feed them all if they aren't laying eggs to help pay for themselves! Ugh, I feel like a traitor! What do you guys do?