Rehoming Chickens: A Complete Guide

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Sometimes, chicken keepers find themselves in a tough spot.

Maybe your flock has grown too big, maybe you can’t care for them anymore, or perhaps you have too many roosters.

When this happens, rehoming chickens is the kindest choice.

It gives your birds a chance to live happily with someone who has the space, time, and love for them.

In this article, we’ll explain why rehoming may be needed, how to prepare, and the best ways to find your chickens a new home.

Rehoming Chickens: Reasons Why

There are many reasons why rehoming might be necessary.

And just before you feel bad about it, rehoming them doesn’t mean you don’t care.

It means you’re putting the chicken’s needs first.

Common reasons for rehoming chickens include:

Having too many roosters (most towns allow only hens).
Limited space in the coop or run.
Moving to a new place where chickens aren’t allowed.
Financial struggles or rising feed costs.
Illness, allergies, or lifestyle changes.

Rehoming chickens may feel sad, but it’s often the most responsible choice.

Things to Consider Before Rehoming Chickens

Before you give your chickens away, think about what’s best for them.

Health check

Make sure they’re healthy before rehoming. You can conduct your own chicken health check or consult a veterinarian.

Behavior

If you’ve had your chickens for some time, you’re already familiar with their personality.

So, let the new owners know if they are friendly, shy, or aggressive.

Egg-Laying

Do you have good egg-laying breeds? Do you have old or young hens?

Whatever the case may be, mention if they are still laying eggs or are retired hens.

Breed

It’s best to make a list of the chicken breeds you plan to rehome.

Some breeds are better suited for egg production, while others are better suited for pets.

It’s best to openly communicate this with new owners so that they’ll know what to prepare and how to take care of them.

After all, being honest helps your chickens find the right home.

How to Prepare Chickens for Rehoming

Getting your flock ready is an important step.

It helps the transfer go smoother and makes it less stressful for your hens. The same goes with the new owners.

Clean them up

Dust bath or gentle wipe if needed.

ALSO READ: All About Chicken Dust Baths

Health check-up

Check for mites, lice, or illness.

ALSO READ: 7 Natural Ways to Treat Chicken Mites and Stop Them Returning

Trim nails or beaks (if needed)

Helps them adjust well to a new home.

ALSO READ: Chicken Beak Trimming: A Comprehensive Cutting Guide

Collect their history

Write down their age, breed, laying habits, and favorite foods.

Places Where You Can Rehome Chickens

Finding the right place is the key to successful rehoming chickens.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options that can take good care of your hens.

But like when you were first choosing your hens, you also need to pick the right new owners who can give your hens what they need.

1. Local Farms or Homesteads

Farmers may take in extra hens or roosters for eggs or breeding.

2. Animal Sanctuaries

Some sanctuaries take unwanted chickens and give them lifelong care.

3. Friends and Family

Ask people you trust who may be interested in starting a flock.

4. Online Groups and Forums

Backyard chicken groups, homesteading forums, and Facebook groups often have members looking for birds.

5. Animal Shelters or Rescue Groups

Some shelters and rescues have space for chickens.

How to Make Sure Chickens Go to a Good Home

Not every home is the right home.

When rehoming chickens, ask a few questions to make sure your flock will be cared for.

Do they have a safe coop or shelter?
Do they have experience with chickens?
Will they use the chickens for eggs, pets, or meat?
Do they have space for free-ranging or exercise?

It’s okay to be choosy. After all, your chickens deserve a loving home.

Rehoming Chickens: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving can be stressful for chickens. These steps can help:

Transport safely
Use a crate or box with good ventilation.
Move during calm hours
Evening moves are less stressful.
Give them familiar food
Send some feed they’re used to.
Let them settle
It may take a few days for them to adjust.

What If No One Wants the Chickens?

Sometimes it’s hard to find a home right away. So, here are some backup ideas:

Keep posting in different groups.
Offer them to schools or community gardens.
Check with local 4-H clubs or youth farming groups.
Ask your vet or farm supply store for leads.

Patience is key. Eventually, you’ll find the right fit.

Rehoming Roosters: Special Considerations

Roosters are often harder to rehome than hens.

Many cities don’t allow roosters, and they don’t lay eggs. But don’t give up!

Some people love them for protection and breeding.

Ways to rehome roosters:

Look for farms that need flock protectors.
Contact rooster rescues (yes, they exist!).
Post in breed-specific chicken groups.

ALSO READ: Should I Have A Rooster? Learn The Pros and Cons

Benefits of Rehoming Chickens

Rehoming isn’t just good for the chicken; it helps you, too.

Here are some of the reasons why you should rehome your chickens:

You’ll feel relieved knowing they’re safe.
The chickens get space and attention.
It prevents stress and overcrowding in your flock.
Others can also enjoy the joy of raising chickens.

Rehoming Chickens: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make these mistakes when rehoming:

Not asking questions

Always check the new owner’s setup.

Rushing the process

Take your time to find the right home.

Not being honest

Tell the truth about age, health, and egg-laying.

Dumping chickens

Never abandon them in the wild; they can’t survive alone.

FAQs About Rehoming Chickens

Is it hard to rehome chickens?

It can take time, especially with roosters, but with patience and effort, it’s possible.

Do chickens miss their old home?

Yes, at first they may be confused, but they adapt quickly to new flocks and routines.

Can I rehome old hens?

Yes! Many people adopt hens even if they don’t lay much. They can still be great pets.

What if my chickens don’t get along in their new home?

This is normal. Introductions take time. They usually settle after a few days or weeks.

Rehoming Chickens: Before You Go…

Rehoming chickens can be an emotional experience, but it’s also a loving choice when you can no longer care for them.

By preparing your birds, asking the right questions, and choosing safe new homes, you give your flock the best chance at a happy life.

Remember: rehoming chickens is not giving up. It’s making sure your birds have the future they deserve.