[EJCTM]

I think it does work out if you would normally buy the organic free-range eggs from the supermarket in the same quantity as you get from your hens. Plus getting a free coop from freecycle, using up scrap wood to make a pen, and old hutch for a brooding coop, etc.

No need to spend lots of money. Also things like a sack of oyster shell lasts ages and ages. The more you free-range them the more they find their own food, plus the kitchen scraps, etc. The time you don't spend mowing the lawn must count for something!

OK, I haven't actually done a profit and loss account on my chickens, and possibly might be scared of the results, but I think overall it is worth it!!