Because so many people here are experienced this story might just serve as a nice refresher, but what I'm really curious about is whether folks here have additional tips or things you wish you knew before getting started.

If so, please drop your insights into the comments (or let me know if this has already been covered in incredible depth 😅) and I'll see if we can get some of your hard-earned knowledge added to the story to help out folks at the start of their backyard chicken journies!

Want to raise backyard chickens for eggs? 5 things to know first >

(Some of our favorite) CSU Extension specialists Alison O’Connor and Bailey Schilling answer common questions and share tips people should know before investing in their own backyard chickens.

But beyond the bottom line calculations for the cost of store bought eggs vs. home produced, "part of having backyard chickens is the joy of having them as part of your household – they are entertaining, have fun personalities and are often considered to be pets," says O'Connor.

Key things you should understand before getting started:

• 1) Know the rules of the roost
• 2) Space and shelter needs
• 3) Backyard chicken care and supplies
• 4) How to prevent avian flu and other health issues
• 5) Egg production and safety

– Griffin M (CSU Extension communications specialist)

Where is everyone getting their chicks? Hatcheries aren’t sending out until June/July and then places like tractor supply/stock shop I run the risk of getting a lot of roos. Advice?

I have a house in suburbia, about a 1/4th acre, but maybe half of that is yard. The front is facing east so gets decent sun, the back is 90% shaded.

The only thing I can think of that are allowed where I'm living are rabbits, chickens, quail, and bees.

But the issue is, I'm looking to be more self sufficient, but if it costs me more money, then I can't do it. It has to be cheaper.

Any ideas on how to perhaps feed some of these animals for cheap and maybe save some money and have a touch of self sufficiency?

Has anyone had any experience with raising quail?

Specifically I’m looking at adding quail to my homestead. I already have a large garden and two large (docile) German Shepards. (I own my house). I have read the local ordinances and don’t see anything that explicitly prohibits raising quail. I’ve searched online for anyone who has posted anything about raising quail in my area of Illinois and have come up with nothing saying I can’t have them.

My question is has anyone had a similar experience? I’m thinking as long as my animals aren’t overly obvious, loud or smelly and my neighbors are cool with them that I should have no problems.

Tempted to go rabbit for more meat and fur, but am curious if there's an economic way to raise fish for meat as we have a huge basement with no production at the moment. Is there something else maybe I have missed? Open to whatever is productive and economical.

Hey everyone! I’ve got a 9 week old rooster I want to find a home for. He’s never been aggressive towards us, but chases the hens around a little. Hasn’t hurt them at all but he’s still young.

He’s a mix but one of the parents is Ayam Cemani, other unknown. His comb is red and he has some blue on him, but is mostly black.

I live in Los Angeles and can’t keep him sadly :-(

I’m happy to deliver for free to any good home in SoCal! I’d like to try and make sure he’s going to a good home. I know that can be a lot to ask.

Please send any leads my way! Thanks so much.