Owning a backyard flock is a growing trend in the United States. According to USDA (2005), 7% of households in the U.S. own a small, non-commercial flock. There are over 138,000 small flocks, which is equivalent to 9.7 million birds. The average size of a small flock is approximately 49 birds.
Before starting a backyard flock, the following should be planned out at least six months in advance:
- What are the zoning regulations in my neighborhood for livestock and poultry?
- Will raising poultry bother my neighbors?
- How will I house and confine my poultry?
- Am I aware of biosecurity practices and common poultry diseases?
- Do I have time to care for a poultry flock?
By answering all five questions, you begin to prepare yourself for owning a small flock. Remember, caring for a flock is a 24 hour, seven day a week commitment that begins when you acquire your first bird.
References:
USDA. 2005. Part I: Reference of health and management of backyard/ small production flocks in the United States, 2004. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/banner/help