I've had cats, dogs, ferretts, hamsters, reptiles, and fish, but I never would have thought of chickens as pets. Egg layers, poultry, and barnyard characters, yes, but I never saw them as pets. After a neighbor mentioned raising chickens for eggs, I looked into it, and there is a huge movement growing to enable even urban folks to care for chickens as pets. If hand raised, they'll come to you, enjoy petting and being held, and become a part of the family.
There are dozens of breeds of chickens. Some are more social, some are better egg layers, and others are more hearty in cold climates. Chickens typically lay eggs at just a few months old, and continue for about four years. But, the lifespan of the average chicken is about 15 years, so unless you're ok with your pet chicken ending up in pot pie, you'll end up caring for an "unproductive" chicken in her long retirement.
They're a relatively low cost pet, and they'll aid in insect and pest control, while providing you with excellent garden fertilizer. So, there is some tangible value in addition to companionship and enjoyment.
What do you think? Do you see chickens as companions?
Thanks to Birdhobbyist.com and Backyard Chickens for the info.
