A unique rental program is bringing farm-fresh eggs to the backyards of aspiring farmers.
Rent the Chicken is a business based in Pennsylvania, but has recently expanded to offer the clucking companions in 15 U.S. states and Ontario and P.E.I.
"They're the perfect little pet and they give eggs as a great bonus," P.E.I. farmer on Monday.
"Why doesn't everybody have one or two of these in their backyard?"
Bernard and her husband rent chickens from their in Freetown, P.E.I., which they've owned since 2003.
Bernard long promoted backyard chickens, and signed up to be an affiliate of Rent the Chicken to help bring the birds to her urban neighbours.
"Everybody should be that much closer to their food," she said.
, renters can get their hands on a pair of egg-laying hens, a portable coop, a supply of food and a water dish for a period of five months.
From June to October, the chickens and any eggs laid belong to the renters.
Those unable to part with their new pets at the end of the period have an option to adopt the birds, or tag them and request the same ones during the next rental period.
"They do have real personalities, you do get attached to them," Bernard said.
She said many renters who live in the city are concerned about predators like foxes, but added that the coops are designed to keep critters out.
There are also bylaws renters will have to take into consideration, but Bernard said that most are complaint-based.
She recommends renters talk to their neighbours and explain that, unlike roosters, the hens are fairly quiet, and with only two birds there won't be a smell.
Most cities outline their bylaws online. For example, , a proposal to allow backyard chickens has been deferred indefinitely. The birds are prohibited and the city will respond to any complaints.
In Charlottetown, backyard chickens are not generally permitted, as outlined in the , but the city's mayor has said he will overlook the law as long as there are no complaints.
