Backyard poultry a family affair

ONEIDA » Backyard poultry ownership is a growing phenomenon in recent years as Americans have taken control over their family meals with an all-natural, homegrown food source. Now experts say more and more people are making the jump into backyard poultry for an added benefit: family time.

Raising poultry is the perfect activity to promote bonding and interactive educational experiences for the entire family. “I’ve been raising chicks with my family for the past year, and I can already see the benefits it’s instill- ing beyond our backyard — just like what I repeatedly hear from our customers,” said Neely Green, a mother of three and Tractor Supply Company’s national marketing manager. “In addition to creating opportunities for our family to have fun, unplugged time together, this experience has taught us important lessons in responsibility, reaping the rewards of hard work, and how to eat well and live sustainably.”

To help families get started raising poultry, Tractor Supply is hosting Chick Days at stores nationwide, including the Oneida lo- cation, through April 29. The 10week springtime event features live baby chicks and ducklings along with the supplies and expertise needed to begin or grow a backyard flock.

“As parents, it’s our job to teach our children personal responsibility and healthy behaviors,” said Green. “Raising backyard poultry provides parents with so many teachable moments, like collecting the eggs, caring for live animals and proper handling guidelines — including the importance of washing your hands — to en--

sure the safety of your flock and yourself.”

New this year to Chick Days, families can get started with backyard poultry by purchasing a minimum of four chicks in select states with the flexibility to mix and match with ducklings. In addition to purchasing chicks and ducklings on- site, the event features a one-stop shop for all the items needed to begin the process, including starter kits, feed, bedding, heat bulbs and lamps, and coops.

Visit TractorSupply.com/Chicks for information on safe handling and care for poultry and building a chicken coop. Backyard poultry rules and regulations vary by city, county and state, so check with your local government before purchasing. Learn more about in-store chick and duckling arrivals by following Tractor Supply on Facebook or visiting your local store, which can be found at www.TractorSupply.com/ StoreLocator.

Backyard poultry rules and regulations vary by city, county and state, so check with your local government before purchasing.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Chick Days are underway at Tractor Supply Company through April 29.