Because it's easy, cheap, and fun!

There’s the obvious appeal of eating farm-fresh eggs laid by happy hens eating healthy food. But the satisfaction of collecting eggs from the nest pales in comparison to the enjoyment these rewarding creatures provide.

Chickens are about as easy to care for as houseplants. Once their basic needs are met, you could just give them food and water every couple days and they’ll be fine.

But you wouldn’t want to ignore them—they’re loads of fun and they make great pets. Hens talk amongst themselves, have nice little personalities, come when you call them, and follow you around. Some love to be patted and all look forward to a tasty treat from you (such as a banana or cracked corn). You’ll find their antics endlessly entertaining. Kids love them, and toddlers can chase them forever (and never catch one).

Other benefits include control of weeds and insects, as they patrol your yard devouring bugs, slugs, snails, and weed seeds. Many homeowners report seeing fewer pests once they have pet chickens.

Chicken manure is famously great for gardens (let it mellow first, though, its nitrogen content is so high that plants can get fertilizer burn if it’s not composted for a few months before it goes on the garden.)

• Why do you keep chickens? Share the inspiration that got you started!

Some people—4H kids, mostly—show their chickens at county fairs and competitions, vying for “best in show.”

Theoretically you could keep chickens for meat, too, but most people take the eggs-and-pets approach. Many of us have weak stomachs for slaughtering our pets.

Zen chickens, Zen mind. It’s remarkably soothing to watch chickens walking around your backyard. The tranquility and calming effect are akin to the benefits of gazing at tropical fish in an aquarium.