Small Flock Farm-Gate Eggs

Neighbours, farmers' market shoppers, local cafés and people who want eggs from a known local source.

Price per dozen, sold direct. Regular weekly customers and a market stall or honesty box at the farm gate give steady sales. Egg production slows in winter and as hens age.

• Comfortable handling and looking after animals
• Early starts and daily routine, 365 days a year
• Basic selling and record keeping

• Egg supply management: provinces set limits on flock size and sales, so check with your provincial marketing board
• Egg grading, washing, labelling and registration rules, which vary by province
• Avian influenza: check biosecurity guidance from the CFIA and your provincial agriculture ministry
• Commercial general liability insurance and farm insurance
• Winter heating, water freezing and predators such as foxes and raccoons

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on flock size, housing, feed and equipment. Winter heating, freezing water and predator protection can add to what you need, so plan for them.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $2,000, depending on flock size, where you sell and your prices. Expect at least about 7 hours a week, with daily chores every day of the year.

Things to check: egg supply management limits on flock size and sales with your provincial marketing board; grading, washing, labelling and registration rules in your province; avian influenza biosecurity guidance from the CFIA; and insurance.