How to Cut Backyard Chicken-Keeping Costs in Half

Chickens love to eat vegetable scraps and other kitchen leftovers, so add variety to their diet and reduce your bill from the feed store at the same time.

Feed kitchen waste

Much of the initial outlay when setting up a new coop and run can be reduced by building your own with materials you might already have or can find cheaply.

Upgrade your DIY skills

Bulk purchases are usually cheaper per pound, so consider buying larger quantities if you have a suitable place to store them.

Purchase Feed in Bulk

Grow some of your own feed, such as oats, sunflower seeds, or comfrey, to further cut feed costs.

Grow Your Own Chicken Feed

If you have a large yard or space for chickens to roam, allowing them to free-range can help supplement their diet with grasses, insects, and other natural food sources.

Free-range grazing

Use salvaged wood, old pallets, fencing, or even discarded furniture to build or reinforce your chicken setup.

Repurpose Materials for Coop and Run