Читать книгу Hobby Farm Animals - Chris McLaughlin - Страница 40

The times they are a-changin’ once again. As our world becomes increasingly frenetic, violent, and stressful, a burgeoning number of Americans are seeking a quieter existence. “We’ll move to the country,” some decide. “We’ll live on a small farm and commute or work from home!” “We’ll garden!” “We’ll have chickens!”

Nowadays, from Minneapolis to New Orleans, from Los Angeles to New York City and all points in between, throngs of city and suburban residents raise and praise the chicken. A few miles farther out, more hobby farmers are likely to raise chickens than any other farmyard bird or beast. Hens are the critter du jour.

Why keep chickens? For their eggs, of course, and (for those who eat them) their healthier-than-red-meat flesh, whether strictly for your own table or for profit as well. Chickens are easy to care for, and you needn’t break the bank to buy, house, and feed them. You may also wish, like many hobby farmers, to keep livestock for fun and relaxation. Surprisingly, chickens make unique, affectionate pets. They offer a link to gentler times; they’re good for the soul. It’s relaxing (and fascinating) to hunker down and observe them.

This information is meant to educate and entertain rookie and chicken maven alike. Are you with me? Then let’s talk chickens!