Raising free-range chickens

Listen to this radio story about free range chickens (MP3 download)

Although the term sounds somewhat exotic, free-range chickens are simply birds not housed continuously. Instead of spending their days cooped up in a cage, they are allowed to roam freely while dining on insects and whatever pleases their palate. The practice is considered to be healthier and more humane than a traditional factory farm approach. It's also a very affordable way to produce meaty, tender birds. However, free-range chickens must still have a secure place to sleep at night in order to protect them from raccoons, coyotes, and other predators.

Radio interview source: Alnice Nichols, poultry expert

For additional information about raising free range chickens, we recommend the following links:

Raising Poultry on Pasture: Answers to common questions about raising free-range chickens.

Free-Range Poultry: Links to resources for people interested in learning more about free-range poultry production.

Organic Poultry and Eggs Capture High Price Premiums: A look at the growing market for poultry and eggs produced in a humane environment.