— Livestock —

Plan to rear chickens for eggs? Here are a few basics…

March 4, 2019
Poultry farming in Zambia is very popular with families rearing chickens in scoops in their backyards. And the best part of raising your own chickens is that you get to enjoy fresh and tasty eggs. Even more, you can use the shells as compost for your garden.

The first thing you need to think about is whether you’ll be raising your chickens from eggs or whether you’ll be buying chicks. You can also buy chickens that are ready to lay. If you’re new to raising layers, it’s best to start with chickens that are ready to lay and I’ll focus on this.

How many chickens do you plan to start with?

The number of layers you can rear depends on the amount of space you have. If you plan on raising chickens just for the family then 4-7 chickens should be enough. But if you’re planning to raise them as a business then it’s important to note that a hen can only lay one egg a day and there will be days when it won’t lay at all. This is because it takes 26 hours for an egg to form fully after the previous egg is laid.
Chickens

How much space will your layers need?

They need at least 2 square feet of coop floor per chicken. This is enough space for them to spread their wings. The more space, the happier and healthier they will be. You don’t want them overcrowding as it contributes to disease and feather picking.

Once you’ve done your measurements and done your math, you need to build your scoop.

You’ll also have to think about feeders and water containers and a nest box for every three hens. It should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure. If you start with a small scoop and plan to increase your flock, you’ll have to remember that young chicks will need a brooder lamp for warmth.

Before you go on to start rearing you layers. Spend some time reading about breeds and what can affect egg production.

If farming is your passion and you’re thinking about following your heart then poultry farming is a great place to start. Here are a few tips on raising chicks for eggs.

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29 thoughts on “Plan to rear chickens for eggs? Here are a few basics…”

  3. Do you have information on village chicken, where to get the feeds, vaccines and others related tools and accessories to rearing village chicken?

  5. All those who need info can whatsapp or call me on 0973794983 I have info on broilers,kuroiler,boshvelds,layers and other breeds..how to make feed..organic rearing

  6. Hi all,
    can you find to your side 50 or 100 egg chicken to be delivered at kasumbalesa, for details contact me on WhatsApp number +243 971108999

  7. Av really dreamt of this business it’s really my passion all I need is how to go about it also pictures of how the egg chicken shelter looks like.where to purchase the egg chickens in Zambia and at how much one

    1. Hi Lavender, Try to find someone who’s already rearing chickens for eggs so they can guide you. Others, you can get layers from hybrid or Zambeef

      1. How much is a hen at the point of laying eggs? How much is a cock? What is the minimum number of chickens can I buy?

  11. I would like to start keeping layers at my back yard and have a house unit (4 x 2.8) metres. I am based in Lusaka and i am just gathering information on how to go about it. I dont know how you can help me as a new learner.

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