Research the breeds you might want. Adult bird size, egg laying frequency, temperament, and heat/cold tolerance are all important factors. Are they good mamas if you want them to raise baby chicks? What color eggs do they lay? Any hatchery website has lots of valuable information, plus it’s fun to dream and look through all of the pretty birds.

With bird flu increasing the price of eggs and making them scarce in some areas, many are considering raising backyard chickens. Here's what you need to know.