Small livestock · members guide

Chickens, rabbits and more

by Joe Miller

Small animals turn scraps, grass and feed into eggs, meat and milk. Start with chickens, the easiest food animal there is.

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What's inside

Small livestock comparedAnimalSpaceProducesNotesLaying hens4 sq ft in coop, 10 in run, eachAbout 250 to 300 eggs a year each (goodbreeds)Check city rules; roosters oftenbannedMeat rabbitsA hutch about 2.5 by 3 ft per doeA doe can raise dozens of fryers a yearQuiet; manure goes straight on thegardenDairy goatsPasture or a pen, plus shelterAbout 1/2 to 1 gallon of milk a dayNeed at least two; good fencesBeesA few hivesHoney (stores forever) and pollinationLearn first; a local club helpsFish (pond or tank)A pond or aquaponics tankProteinCatfish, tilapia (where legal)
Check zoning and HOA rules before buying any animals.

Free for everyone: Prepping 101, Water, Food, Shelter, Power, Security, Bug-out bag and the Prepping basics test.