Backyard Eggs: Is This DIY Chicken Coop Guide Worth the Hype?

Are you tired of sky-high egg prices? Do you dream of fresh, wholesome eggs right from your own backyard? The promise of farm-fresh eggs is tempting, and the Backyard Eggs guide aims to show you how. But does it deliver? This review will explore everything you need to know.

Egg prices have indeed surged, making the prospect of raising your own chickens increasingly appealing. However, setting up a backyard coop and caring for chickens requires knowledge and planning. A reliable guide can be invaluable. Let’s find out if Backyard Eggs is that guide.

What is Backyard Eggs?

Backyard Eggs is a digital guide designed to teach you how to build your own chicken coop and successfully raise chickens in your backyard. It promises a step-by-step approach, making it accessible even if you have no prior experience. The guide covers various aspects of chicken keeping, from choosing the right breed to preventing diseases.

According to the vendor, Backyard Eggs aims to provide all the information needed to become self-sufficient in egg production. It addresses common concerns, such as space requirements, predator protection, and legal regulations. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to enjoy a sustainable source of fresh eggs, reducing their reliance on grocery stores.

What’s Included in the Backyard Eggs Guide?

The program typically includes a main guide, often complemented by bonus materials. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:

  • Detailed Coop Plans: Step-by-step instructions and diagrams for building different types of chicken coops, suitable for various backyard sizes and budgets.
  • Chicken Breed Selection: Information on different chicken breeds, their egg-laying capabilities, temperament, and suitability for backyard environments.
  • Feeding and Care Guide: Advice on providing the right nutrition for your chickens, maintaining a clean coop, and preventing common health problems.
  • Egg Collection and Handling: Guidance on collecting eggs safely, storing them properly, and maximizing their freshness.
  • Troubleshooting Tips: Solutions to common problems encountered by backyard chicken keepers, such as pest infestations, disease outbreaks, and behavioral issues.

Benefits of Raising Backyard Chickens

Beyond saving money on store-bought eggs, raising your own chickens offers several advantages:

  • Fresh, High-Quality Eggs: Backyard eggs are often fresher and more nutritious than those found in supermarkets. You control what your chickens eat, ensuring a healthier product.
  • Natural Pest Control: Chickens are excellent at controlling garden pests, such as insects and slugs. They can help reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
  • Composting Benefits: Chicken manure is a valuable source of compost for your garden, enriching the soil and promoting plant growth.
  • Educational Opportunity: Raising chickens can be a fun and educational experience for children, teaching them about animal care and the food cycle.
  • Reduced Carbon Footprint: By producing your own eggs, you reduce your reliance on the industrial food system, lowering your carbon footprint.

Is Backyard Eggs Right For You?

Deciding whether Backyard Eggs is the right fit depends on your individual circumstances and goals. Consider the following factors:

Space Requirements

Raising chickens requires adequate space for a coop and an outdoor run. Before purchasing the guide, assess your backyard to ensure you have enough room. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 4 square feet of coop space and 8 square feet of run space per chicken.

Time Commitment

Caring for chickens requires a daily time commitment. You’ll need to feed them, clean the coop, collect eggs, and monitor their health. Be realistic about your ability to dedicate time to these tasks.

Local Regulations

Check your local ordinances to ensure that backyard chicken keeping is permitted in your area. Some municipalities have restrictions on the number of chickens allowed or require permits.

Initial Investment

Setting up a backyard chicken coop involves an initial investment in materials, equipment, and chickens. The Backyard Eggs guide can help you minimize costs by providing DIY coop plans and tips on sourcing affordable materials. However, be prepared for upfront expenses.

What Makes Backyard Eggs Stand Out From Other Guides?

Several factors differentiate Backyard Eggs from other resources on backyard chicken keeping:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: The guide aims to cover all aspects of chicken keeping, from coop construction to disease prevention. This comprehensive approach can be particularly beneficial for beginners.
  • Step-by-Step Instructions: The guide emphasizes clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easy to follow along even if you have no prior experience.
  • DIY Focus: The guide prioritizes DIY coop plans, helping you save money on construction costs. This can be a significant advantage for budget-conscious individuals.
  • Troubleshooting Support: The guide offers solutions to common problems encountered by backyard chicken keepers, providing valuable support when you need it most.

Potential Drawbacks of the Backyard Eggs Guide

Before purchasing Backyard Eggs, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks:

  • Digital Format: The guide is typically available in digital format, which may not be suitable for everyone. If you prefer a physical book, you may need to print the guide yourself.
  • Generic Information: Some of the information in the guide may be generic and readily available online for free. However, the guide’s value lies in its comprehensive and organized presentation of this information.
  • Regional Variations: Some aspects of chicken keeping may vary depending on your region. The guide may not address all regional variations, requiring you to supplement it with local resources.

Who is Backyard Eggs Best Suited For?

Backyard Eggs is likely to be most beneficial for:

  • Beginners: Individuals with no prior experience in backyard chicken keeping will find the guide’s step-by-step instructions and comprehensive coverage particularly helpful.
  • DIY Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy building things themselves will appreciate the guide’s DIY coop plans and emphasis on affordable materials.
  • Budget-Conscious Individuals: The guide can help you save money on coop construction and egg production, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.
  • Sustainable Living Advocates: Raising backyard chickens is a sustainable practice that aligns with the values of environmentally conscious individuals.

Alternatives to Backyard Eggs

Before committing to Backyard Eggs, explore alternative resources:

  • Online Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities dedicated to backyard chicken keeping can provide valuable information and support.
  • Local Extension Offices: Local extension offices often offer workshops and resources on backyard poultry keeping.
  • Books and Magazines: Many books and magazines cover backyard chicken keeping, providing in-depth information and advice.

Final Thoughts on Backyard Eggs

Backyard Eggs appears to be a comprehensive guide that provides valuable information for aspiring backyard chicken keepers. Its step-by-step instructions, DIY coop plans, and troubleshooting support make it an attractive option for beginners and budget-conscious individuals. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the digital format and generic information, before making a purchase.

While it cannot guarantee success, Backyard Eggs can significantly increase your chances of raising healthy chickens and enjoying a sustainable source of fresh eggs. Just remember that responsible animal care is key to the endeavor.

Ready to raise your own Backyard Eggs? Get started today!

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FAQ

How much space do I really need for a chicken coop?

A general rule is 4 square feet of coop space and 8 square feet of outdoor run space per chicken.

Are backyard chickens noisy?

Hens are generally not very noisy, but roosters can be quite loud. Consider this if you have close neighbors.

What do chickens eat?

Chickens need a balanced diet of commercial chicken feed, supplemented with kitchen scraps, insects, and garden greens.

How long do backyard chickens lay eggs?

Most hens lay eggs for 2-3 years, with their peak production in the first year or two.

Can I raise chickens in the city?

Check your local ordinances. Many cities allow backyard chickens, but there may be restrictions.

References

  • Storey's Guide to Raising Chickens, 4th Edition by Gail Damerow (Storey Publishing, 2015).
  • The Chicken Chick's Guide to Backyard Chickens: Simple Steps for Healthy, Happy Hens by Kathy Shea Mormino (Voyageur Press, 2015).
  • Backyard Poultry Medicine and Surgery: A Guide for Veterinary Practitioners by Cheryl B. Greenacre and Teresa Y. Morishita (Wiley-Blackwell, 2015).
  • ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service: Poultry - Sustainable Production. https://attra.ncat.org/poultry/
  • USDA - United States Department of Agriculture: Backyard Biosecurity. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/animal-health/animal-disease-information/avian/defend-your-flock/backyard-biosecurity

Disclaimer

This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Results may vary. I may earn a commission if you purchase Backyard Eggs through my link.

Last Updated on 1 de February, 2025

Author

  • Hi! I'm Noelene Jenkinson, founder and lead reviewer at NoeleneJenkinson.com, with over 20 years of experience in writing and communication and 8 years in consumer advocacy. Since 2018, I've personally tested and analyzed hundreds of digital products using my rigorous 27-point evaluation process. I'm committed to helping consumers make informed purchasing decisions by providing transparent, thorough, and unbiased reviews.

16 thoughts on “Backyard Eggs: Is This DIY Chicken Coop Guide Worth the Hype?”

  1. This review is exactly what I needed! I’ve been eyeing Backyard Eggs for months. Now I feel confident enough to give it a shot. Thanks!

  2. I bought this guide last year and built my coop using their plans. My chickens are already laying eggs! Totally worth it.

  3. I’m a complete beginner. Does the Backyard Eggs guide really walk you through everything, even if you know nothing about chickens?

  4. I agree with the review. It is comprehensive, but some things are quite generic. Still, the DIY coop plans made it worthwhile.

    1. To user Sarah, about Storey’s Guide, Backyard Eggs is more geared towards DIY coop building, IMHO. Storey’s provides broader info.

  5. I found most of the information online for free, but the organized structure of Backyard Eggs made it easier to follow. So, if you like having everything in one place, it’s a good purchase.

  6. I wish there was more information on specific chicken breeds for cold climates. The guide felt a bit general in that area.

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