There’s a good reason why people always ask me these things: how much do chickens cost? How much do they eat? What do chickens eat? People want to know just how much they will have to invest into their chickens every single month when it comes to feeding them.
Before you jump into the wonderful world of chicken keeping, it might do you some good to learn about the costs of chicken keeping. While they really don’t cost much, each person is different.
More than anything, though, it’s important to know how much feed chickens eat in order to prepare your budget accordingly.
For backyard chicken keepers, knowing how long a bag of chicken feed will last is crucial for budgeting and planning The lifespan of a bag of feed depends on several key factors related to your flock and feeding practices. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the variables that determine feed duration and provide tips for maximizing value and minimizing waste
Key Factors That Impact Chicken Feed Duration
Flock Size and Breed
The most obvious factor is the number of chickens you’re feeding. More chickens consume more feed. However, heavier breeds like Orpingtons eat more than lighter breeds like Leghorns. Bantam chickens consume less than standard-sized chickens. Observe your flock’s daily intake to estimate feed needs.
Age and Life Stage
Chicks and pullets require starter/grower feed formulated for rapid growth. At peak laying age, hens eat layer feed with extra calcium for egg production. Broilers need more protein. The nutritional differences affect daily intake. Chicks seem to eat constantly, while mature chickens eat less.
Feed Type
The feed’s form affects waste – pellets reduce waste versus mash. Also, higher calorie nutrient-dense feeds may require smaller quantities.
Feeding Practices
When animals are free-range and given scraps or treats, they don’t need as much commercial feed. But foraging amounts vary significantly by season and location.
Storage Conditions
Feed that isn’t stored properly can go bad quickly or attract pests. Keep it in a cool, dry, dark place in airtight, rodent-proof containers.
Average Lifespan of a 50 lb Bag
For a small backyard flock of 4-6 hens, a 50 lb bag of layer feed lasts approximately:
- 2-3 weeks for bantam breeds
- 3-4 weeks for 4-6 standard breeds
- 2-3 weeks for heavier breeds like Orpingtons
However, durations vary based on specific breeds, ages, and supplementing. Larger flocks consume bags quicker. Monitor your flock’s intake and adjust amounts accordingly.
Tips for Maximizing Feed Lifespan
- Choose an appropriate feeder to minimize spillage.
- Avoid overfilling feeders.
- Store feed properly in airtight containers.
- Use older feed first before newer bags.
- Check for signs of spoilage or pests.
- For larger flocks, consider an automatic feeder.
- Provide separate calcium supplements.
- Allow free-ranging and offer garden produce.
- Weigh chickens regularly to assess growth/health.
- Feed good quality feeds as less is required.
- Buy feed in bulk for better value.
When to Toss Out Feed
Discard feed at the first signs of:
- Mold growth
- Foul odors
- Insect infestation
- Significant discoloration
- Caking or clumping
Do not feed chickens expired or spoiled feed. While not necessarily immediately dangerous, nutritional value declines. Always err on the side of caution.
Storing Feed Properly
- Use food-grade plastic/metal bins with tight lids
- Store in a dry area away from moisture
- Keep off the ground to prevent pest access
- Avoid temperature extremes
- Place out of sunlight to maintain freshness
- Use rodent deterrents/traps if needed
- Label bins with purchase dates
If you store your chicken feed the right way, it will last longer and cost less. Closely watch your stock and buy feed when you need to to cut down on waste. You can make sure that your chicken feed lasts as long as possible by planning ahead and being careful.
How Much Do Chickens Cost?
There are a few different ways that you can purchase chickens. Make sure you read my blog post about 10 Easy Steps to Start Raising Chickens for a more in-depth discussion on the things you’ll need to get started. But ultimately, there is a wide range as to how much chickens will cost when you’re getting started (excluding feed).
The first month will be the most expensive month because you’ll need to buy or build your coop. For a flock of 6 chickens, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,500 to get everything up and going. Unless, if course, you’re using recycled materials.
So, really, how much do chickens cost each month?
The cost of a non-gmo eggs at the grocery store are around $6 to $7 a dozen. If you bought 140 dozen of these eggs in one year, you would spend $840. But if you raise your own chickens and use non-gmo feed, you would only spend about $240 to $300 a year in chicken feed. Not a bad trade-off!.
After the cost of the chicken coop and set up is over, it really IS cheaper to raise your own chickens. If you free-range your chickens, you’ll save even more.
HOW LONG Can I Feed 17 CHICKENS on ONE Bag of Feed?
FAQ
How long will a 50 lb bag of chicken feed last?
That means a 50-pound bag contains about 200 daily servings for a single hen. That same bag lasts about 40 days for five chickens—just under six weeks. Mar 4, 2025.
How long is a bag of chicken feed good for?
Feed Freshness: If you store feed properly in a dry place with a moderate temperature, it can last up to 4 months. However, we suggest using it within 60 days in the hot, humid summer months and 90 days in the cooler months. Always inspect feed prior to use for bugs, mold, or other evidence of damage.
How much feed will 12 chickens eat in a month?
So, depending on the weather outside, a flock of 6 to 12 chickens will drink about a gallon of water every day. Chickens will eat approximately a 1/4 pound of feed per day. With the average weekly total of 1. 5 pounds.
How much feed do 20 chickens need per day?
However, there is a simple figure to provide you with a solid starting point: 1/4 of a pound per fully grown chicken per day. This means each chicken will eat approximately 1. 5 pounds of feed in a week.