Martha Stewart has had chickens since the '70s, but keeping these 'starter animals' is a rapidly growing trend – here's why (and how to recreate her coop)

Martha Stewart was far from the first to keep chickens, but she certainly made it look chic. From fresh, on-demand food to the fulfillment of the homesteader fantasy, it's easy to see why raising chickens has remained a popular activity. Now, it's become a major trend.

Of a recent Instagram photo taken in 1974, Martha explains: 'One of the very first things I did when we moved to our first home, Turkey Hill, was to build a chicken coop and populate it with a delightful assortment of laying hens.' Looking at the image, it makes you want to get outside and care for your own coop. Lisa Steele, a 5th generation chicken-keeper, explains why.

'Like the recession in 2009 and Covid in 2020, the current possibility of another recession coupled with high egg prices and low supply due to the avian flu, has people panicking to some extent and trying to figure out how to raise and grow more of their food,' says Lisa of the garden trend. She continues, 'Since chickens are relatively small and manageable - and one of the few types of livestock that provides a food product without being butchered, they're the perfect "starter" animal for not only homesteaders and farmers but also suburban families.'

Though it may be slated as a trend for 2025, keeping chickens is also a timeless pastime. Lisa explains: 'I saw the interest and number of people getting started with chickens plateau somewhat in the 2010s, but I think that most people who get started end up really enjoying it after they realize how easy the day to day upkeep is, and of course it's easy to get spoiled by those fresh eggs! I honestly don't see it as a trend because numbers of chicken keepers have been steadily rising for years and shows no sign of waning.'

If you are keen to start this hobby in your own backyard, the best place to start is with planning. Lisa advises: 'First, check your town or municipality rules to find out if you are allowed to keep chickens, and then check the rules about roosters (many areas allow hens but not roosters). And yes, you can keep chickens in the city! Check to see if a permit is required for the chickens and/or a coop. Then do some research into the different breeds and decide if you’re more interested in high egg production, egg color, or the temperament of the bird.'

The second step for realizing your own coop is extensive research. 'Learn the basics of caring for baby chicks and adult birds,' recommends Lisa. 'A good educational website or book are the best sources for reputable information. Decide on the size flock you want (remembering that a hen lays about an egg a day during the spring through early fall) and how big/elaborate your coop will be. Research the kinds of potential predators where you live and make sure your coop and pen will provide protection for your flock.' Planning for things like how to care for your chickens in winter will ensure the best possible life for the beloved birds.

She concludes: 'Finally, as a courtesy it's always nice to talk to your closest neighbors and let them know you're getting some chickens - and promise to share some of your eggs with them!'

Keeping chickens can be a gratifying, fun, and money-saving experience that people will gravitate towards in 2025. As per usual, Martha Stewart was ahead of the curve.