Are free range chicken eggs really any different than store bought? And are you tired of those watery, pale eggs without flavor? Let’s take a look at the free range story.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a huge farm to raise your own chickens in Andover. All you need is a yard for them to roam in, and they will find the right things to eat on their own. I have found that living near the Blackwater River flood plain is perfect.

A year ago, I purchased 12 baby chicks from the Salisbury Barn Store from Katie, who was very helpful in getting me all the chicken necessities. To my surprise, you don’t need much, and only a few dollars gets you started.

I found it very interesting and fun watching them grow from a small chick the size of a mouse to a full grown bird in such a short time. I also find them to be smart and friendly.

As for nutrition facts, free range eggs (compared to store-bought eggs) have:

• Two times Omega-3 fatty acids

• 1/3 less cholesterol

• ¼ less saturated fat

• 2/3 more vitamin A

• Three times more vitamin E

• Seven times more beta carotene

• Six times more vitamin D

Plus, they taste incredible.

Finally, there’s the question of how to deal with the threat of predators in the Andover area. What I have learned after the study of these animals is to protect your chickens, especially at night. A small light works great, and a radio also works to keep most predators away.

Some of our predators of importance to watch for are:

• Hawks, owls, and turkey vultures

• Stray dogs and cats (domestic and wild)

• Raccoons

• Minks and weasels

• Fishers

And the fox, who I feel gets a bad reputation just because he is a fox in Andover.

If anyone would like to find out if free range eggs are better, please come see us at 211 Switch Road. And thank you to our loyal Andover customers.