By Blake Jackson
Raising chickens on pasture using movable shelters, commonly known as “chicken tractors,” is becoming increasingly popular among Missouri farmers and families. These portable systems allow poultry to forage naturally while staying safe from predators, offering consumers eggs and meat raised in a sustainable and animal-friendly manner.
Although operating a mobile poultry setup appears straightforward, turning it into a profitable venture takes careful planning and a solid understanding of expenses, says Jennifer Lutes, University of Missouri Extension field specialist in agricultural business. “These systems can work well, but to be profitable you must plan carefully and know your costs,” Lutes explained.
To assist farmers, MU Extension has released two new free publications:
According to Lutes, the guides outline all factors involved in mobile poultry operations, from purchasing chicks, feed, fencing, and housing to the daily chores of feeding, watering, collecting eggs, and marketing.
For meat birds, the resources describe how chicks begin in brooders for about four weeks before moving outdoors until they reach market weight around eight weeks. Processing can be handled either on-farm or by a custom processor, with sales typically direct to consumers.
“People see mobile hen houses on social media and think it must be a low-cost way to raise eggs,” said Tatijana Fisher, state extension specialist with Lincoln University. “But the reality is that costs add up quickly. Feed, equipment and especially labor are major expenses, and they can make the difference between a hobby and a profitable business.”
The publications also include sample budgets for various flock sizes, breakeven calculators, and interactive spreadsheet tools for Excel or Google Sheets, allowing producers to explore how changes in feed or egg prices affect profitability.
“Every farm is different,” said Drew Kientzy, MU Extension senior research analyst in agricultural business and policy. “What works for one family may not work for another. These budget tools give producers the power to run the numbers and make decisions with confidence.”
Additionally, both guides provide insights into marketing strategies, regulations for selling poultry and eggs in Missouri, and cost-saving methods that promote flock health and business sustainability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: Missouri, Livestock, Poultry