With record-high egg prices spurred by a spreading bird flu outbreak, residents are flocking to backyard chicken ownership as a way to secure their own fresh eggs. Local stores like Pittsboro Feed are seeing chicks flying off shelves at just $6 each, as people eager for self-reliance and potentially better quality eggs jump into the trend—even if the initial investment in coops, heat lamps, feeders, and water setups can add up to thousands of dollars. Even amid legal checks and health warnings about salmonella, the appeal of personal egg production is hard to resist as consumers strive to break free from soaring grocery costs.

Key Points:

• A dozen eggs have reached a record price of $4.95, topping the previous high.
• A bird flu outbreak has led to the culling of over 4 million egg-laying chickens in North Carolina.
• Chick sales have surged, with outlets like Pittsboro Feed reporting rapid sellouts.
• Despite significant startup costs for equipment and coops, many are attracted to the idea of self-sufficiency.
• Buyers are advised to check local regulations and health guidelines due to risks like salmonella.

Why did the chicken start a backyard business? Because it heard the eggs were cracking up the market!
Link to Article