Gardening Australia

BACKYARD HENS KEY TO INCREASING self-sustainabi­lity

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Many people either own backyard hens or know of someone who does. This growing popularity has largely been due to families wanting to become more self-sustainabl­e. So, why is keeping backyard hens so good for your family?

Well, hens make fantastic pets! Our breed, Hy-Line Brown, are extremely friendly and placid hens. They love company, and like nothing more than to spend time interactin­g with their owners. We hear lots of entertaini­ng stories from our customers, such as their hens going on school runs or on swings with the kids, and happily jumping up onto their laps.

Good egg-laying breeds such as our Hy-Lines also quickly pay for themselves by providing your family with a good supply of highly nutritious and delicious eggs throughout the year. Their eggs are high in protein and minerals but low in calories. You also have peace of mind, knowing exactly how your hens have been treated and what food they have eaten.

Of course, food doesn’t get more local than when it comes from your own backyard! And with a vegetable garden, your family is more self-sufficient and able to live more sustainabl­y. If you really had to avoid social contact, your hens and vegetables could keep your household well fed over the long-term.

Hen ownership also teaches children important, practical lessons about life. Not only do they need to be responsibl­e for feeding and providing water for their hens, they must also collect eggs daily, and keep the coop clean and safe. Any excess eggs can also be sold or given away to friends and neighbours, which is a great way of benefiting others in your local community.

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