Most people think of chicken coops as a commercial agricultural building. Many are surprised to hear that owning a small-scale coop is possible, even in a suburban setting. Some now even consider a chicken coop as somewhat trendy; Martha Stewart's designer coop created quite a buzz on the internet.

The fact is, keeping chickens at home has been popular lately as people are drawn to the economy of producing their own eggs and the healthful benefits of having a steady supply of fresh eggs. Oh yes, there are actual health benefits to having free range or pastured eggs. It is documented that these eggs contain less cholesterol and saturated fat. In addition they provide more vitamin A and E. And for anyone who has never cracked open a fresh egg and observed the bright yellow color, you are in for a treat;
they simply taste better!

Believe it or not, chickens actually make wonderful pets. They are inexpensive to purchase, are relatively quiet (without a rooster), and are non-aggressive around children. My six year old was never so excited as the day we went to the farm supply to purchase our chicks. Chickens can learn to come when called through repetitive positive reinforcement. Although chickens generally quit laying eggs by age 4, a pet chicken will usually live 8-12 years.

Many people are surprised that chickens really do make wonderful pets. When you think about it, there are not too many pets that are as inexpensive and easy to keep as chickens, and the healthy fresh eggs are an added bonus.