The Secret Life of Backyard Chickens—Why Minnesotans Are Flocking to Feathery Friends
Meet the backyard trend taking over Minnesota—find out why chickens are the new must-have companions. 🌐 #News #StPaulMN #Minnesota #Lifestyle
ST. PAUL, MN – A few summers ago, my hubby Jack and I visited our friends Tom and Annie in Winona, Minnesota. It was supposed to be a simple weekend getaway. We pictured long chats on their porch and maybe a lazy walk along the Mississippi River. What we didn’t expect was to meet the stars of their backyard—a lively flock of chickens.
Tom and Annie had recently started raising chickens, and they were bursting with excitement to show us their setup. There were colorful hens scratching in the dirt, a cozy little coop, and even a “queen chicken” who ruled the roost. By the time we left, Jack and I had learned more about chickens than we ever thought possible. But what really struck us was how much joy those feathery friends brought to their lives.
And it turns out, Tom and Annie aren’t alone. Across Minnesota, people are falling in love with backyard chickens. What started as a trend in urban homesteading has turned into a full-blown movement, with folks from the Twin Cities to small towns like Winona embracing these fascinating birds.
Why Chickens?
For many, it’s about fresh eggs. I mean, have you noticed the insane prices at grocery stores these days?
Plus, there’s nothing quite like cracking open an egg with a deep orange yolk, knowing it came from a happy, well-fed chicken in your own backyard. But the benefits don’t stop there. Chickens help control pests, provide natural fertilizer, and are surprisingly entertaining.
“They’re like tiny, feathery comedians,” Annie told us. “Every chicken has its own personality, and they’re so much fun to watch.”
How Minnesotans Are Making It Work
Raising chickens does take some effort. Minnesotans have to consider the cold winters, ensuring their coops are warm and predator-proof. But people like Tom and Annie prove it’s doable. With a little planning, backyard chickens can thrive even in Minnesota’s climate.
Local communities have also embraced the trend. Most towns have clear guidelines for backyard flocks, making it easier for new chicken owners to get started. Some cities even offer workshops or classes on chicken care.
The Unexpected Perks
Tom and Annie told us they started their flock for the fresh eggs, but they’ve gained so much more. Raising chickens has given them a deeper connection to nature and a sense of accomplishment. And let’s not forget the Instagram-worthy moments—who knew chickens could be so photogenic? Hehe.
For Jack and me, that weekend visit gave us a new appreciation for backyard chickens. We may not have a flock of our own yet, but we’ve been dreaming about it ever since.
So, if you’re thinking about adding a few feathered friends to your backyard, go for it. Whether you’re after fresh eggs, pest control, or just a little extra entertainment, chickens have a way of making life a bit sweeter.
Who knows? You might just fall in love with the secret life of backyard chickens, too!
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Home and Garden | Lifestyle | Minnesota
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