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Day Old Chicks Vs Point Of Lay
You’re probably wondering which is more profitable between day old chicks and point of lay birds. Every farmer has an opinion, and you’ve likely heard many. Today, let’s settle this once and for all.

Before we start, to get the most out of this post, read this guide first:

👉 5 Things You Should Know Before Starting Layers Farming

This will help you decide which option suits your farm best.

In this post, we’ll compare day old chicks (DOC) and point of lay (POL) birds, looking at their advantages and disadvantages. By the end, you’ll know which one fits your goals — whether you want to learn, save time, or make quick profits.

1. Learning Opportunity

Raising day old chicks gives you a valuable learning experience that point of lay birds do not. Starting with DOC means you learn everything — brooding, feeding, vaccination, and general poultry management. You’ll understand your birds from the first day until they start laying eggs.

On the other hand, buying POL hens skips this stage. You get birds ready to lay, but you miss the practical lessons that build your confidence as a poultry farmer.

If you want fast cash, POL may suit you. However, if you want long-term mastery, DOC offers better training and experience.

2. Time Investment

Raising day old chicks takes more time compared to point of lay birds. With DOC, you must care for them for around 18 weeks before they start laying. Those first 5 months are the most crucial and demanding in a bird’s life.

Meanwhile, POL hens save you that time. Since they’re already mature, they can start laying eggs within a week or two after purchase. Therefore, you begin earning faster, which is ideal for farmers focused on quick returns from their egg production business.

3. Skills Required

Handling day old chicks requires more skill than managing point of lay hens. Brooding demands knowledge of temperature control, feed management, and a proper vaccination schedule for layers. Any mistakes at this stage can lead to high chick mortality.

In contrast, POL layers need fewer technical skills. You mainly feed them, maintain clean housing, and continue a few vaccinations. This makes them suitable for beginners or part-time poultry farmers who have little experience.

Day old chicks vs Point of lay birds

4. Cost Comparison

At first glance, buying point of lay birds seems expensive. In 2025, day old chicks cost around Ksh.150 each, while point of lay birds range between Ksh.800 and Ksh.1,500 depending on the seller.

However, when you consider the total cost of rearing DOCs — feed, brooding equipment, electricity, and vaccines — the expenses can add up. Raising them to the point of lay costs much more than buying ready-to-lay birds. So, while POL looks pricey upfront, it can save you time and early-stage costs.

5. Profit And Return Potential

The return potential for day old chicks can be higher once you master your system. Initially, it seems easier to buy point of lay hens and start earning immediately. Yet, experienced farmers know that once you perfect your brooding and reduce mortality, profits from DOC can surpass those from POL.

That’s because you can grow your own chicks, sell some as point of lay to other farmers, and even brood chicks for clients at a fee. These extra income streams make DOC a strong long-term business strategy.

6. Risk Level

Every poultry venture has risks. With day old chicks, the main risk is high mortality during brooding. If you lack experience or proper housing conditions, losses can occur quickly.

On the other hand, point of lay birds come with hidden risks. You may not always know their real age, vaccination history, or overall health status. If you buy from unverified suppliers, you risk bringing diseases to your farm. Always source your POL hens from trusted, certified farms to avoid these issues.

7. Sourcing And Availability

Sourcing day old chicks is generally easier. Kenya has many verified hatcheries supplying healthy DOCs every week. You can book and collect your chicks without much hassle.

However, finding reliable point of lay birds can be stressful. You may need to buy from different farmers to reach your desired number. That process takes time, increases risk, and sometimes affects flock uniformity — an important factor in layers egg production.

8. The Fun Factor

If it’s not fun, we’re not doing it — that’s one of our core values at Secret Layers. Raising day old chicks is much more rewarding and exciting than buying point of lay birds. Watching your chicks grow from tiny neonates to full layers gives unmatched satisfaction.

For farmers who enjoy seeing results from their hard work, DOC farming brings more joy. But if you prefer less hustle and instant results, POL might suit you better.

9. Business Opportunity (Bonus)

There’s a growing business opportunity in point of lay production. Many farmers buy day old chicks, raise them to POL, and then sell them at a profit. Others brood chicks for clients for a fee, turning their poultry knowledge into an extra income stream.

Therefore, whether you choose DOC or POL, the key is to plan your farm as a real business, not just a hobby.

Both day old chicks and point of lay birds can be profitable depending on your goals, experience, and resources. If you want to learn and build a long-term business, start with DOC. But if your priority is fast income with minimal effort, go for POL.

I’ll soon share a detailed post on what I personally chose — and why. Watch out for it!

Get my Free Layer Poultry Farming Guide here👇🏿

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November 7, 2025
The 8 Brooding Principles Every Poultry Farmer Must Know
Brooding chicks is the make-or-break stage for any poultry farmer. Get it wrong, and you could lose over 80% of your flock — that’s future profit gone. Get it right, and mortality drops to below 5%, which is the accepted standard in poultry farming.

If you’ve ever struggled with brooding or just want to perfect your skills, this guide is for you. You’ll learn the 8 essential brooding principles that ensure healthy chicks and minimal losses — from temperature control to security.

I’ve referenced layers in this post because that’s all Secret Layers is about. But, whether you’re into layer poultry farming or broilers, these principles apply to all. Only slight timing and quantity adjustments differ. Let’s dive in. 🐥

1. Temperature Regulation

Temperature control is the heart of brooding chicks. It ensures your birds stay comfortable, active, and healthy.

Start your brooding temperature at 28–30°C on day one, then reduce by about 2°C every week. However, always follow your hatchery’s specific temperature guidelines — some breeds may vary.

Monitor temperature daily using a thermometer. But also read your chicks’ behavior:

Crowded near heat source: Too cold — increase heat.

Far from heat source: Too hot — reduce heat.

Evenly spread: Perfect temperature.

Consistent temperature management during the brooding period prevents heat or cold stress and sets the foundation for strong growth.

Master your brooding. Master your your profits. See the various aspects of brooding present in this setup.

2. Lighting

Light is more than visibility; it affects chick behavior and growth. During the first week, provide 24 hours of light to help chicks find feed and water easily. This continuous light encourages constant feeding, which supports rapid growth.

As they grow, gradually reduce light to about 18 hours a day by the end of the brooding period. However, avoid bright or harsh lighting — it may trigger feather pecking or cannibalism.

Proper lighting promotes calm, active feeding behavior and balanced growth — vital for your chicks.

3. Feed And Water

In chicken farming, feed and water are everything. Healthy chicks depend on consistent access to clean water and quality feed.

Keep feeders and drinkers filled and refreshed regularly. Chicks need feed available at all times, especially during the first few weeks. As they grow, increase the feed amount gradually to match their size and appetite using supplier standards.

Use starter mash from trusted suppliers and avoid cheap, low-quality feeds that may harm your birds’ long-term production. Feed too little and they’ll starve or weaken; feed too much and you’ll waste money or cause obesity.

For water, remember: if you can’t drink it, don’t give it to your chicks. Provide clean, fresh water at all times to prevent disease.

4. Disease Management

Diseases are the most unpredictable threat in poultry farming. They strike without warning and can wipe out an entire flock in one day. To protect your chicks, you must combine vaccination and biosecurity.

Vaccination

Follow a proper vaccination schedule from your hatchery or local vet. Vaccines are for prevention, not cure. Therefore, vaccinate even when your chicks appear healthy.

Biosecurity

Prevent disease entry and spread by enforcing strict hygiene:

✅Disinfect before entering the brooder.

✅Limit access to authorized personnel only.

✅Clean feeders and drinkers daily.

✅Control pests like rats and mites.

✅Isolate and treat sick birds immediately.

Following these steps reduces disease risks and keeps your flock safe and productive.

I’ll publish a post on all the biosecurity measures to enforce on your farm soon.

5. Litter Management

Litter provides warmth and comfort — but if poorly managed, it can kill your chicks. Keep it dry and fluffy, removing wet or caked areas regularly. Wet litter breeds germs and raises ammonia levels, which can harm chicks’ respiratory systems.

The brooding period for layers lasts about six to eight weeks, so complete litter changes may not always be necessary. However, if it becomes too wet or muddy, change it immediately. Regularly turning the litter keeps it dry and healthy.

Proper litter management means cleaner air, fewer diseases, and happier chicks.

6. Spacing

Did you like high school? Remember how good it felt when you finally left? Your chicks feel the same when given enough space.

Cramped brooders cause stress, slow growth, and higher mortality. Ensure adequate space per chick, depending on your heat source and brooder design. As your chicks grow, expand the brooder to maintain comfort.

Overcrowding increases competition for feed and water, while too much space wastes litter and heat. The goal is balance — efficient use of space that keeps chicks active and comfortable.

7. Ventilation

Brooders hold many chicks, producing heat, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. Poor ventilation traps these gases and endangers your flock.

Ensure your brooder is well-aerated to allow fresh air in and remove stale air. During hot days, open windows for natural airflow. However, cover them at night or when it’s cold to prevent chills.

If you can smell ammonia or feel stuffiness, ventilation is poor. Good air circulation keeps chicks healthy and reduces respiratory stress.

8. Security

Finally, protect your chicks. Not from disease — but from predators and theft. Rats, snakes, cats, dogs, and even people can destroy your hard work overnight.

Secure your chicken house with strong materials, close holes, and maintain clean surroundings. Use dogs for protection, cats for rodent control, and, if possible, simple CCTVs or motion lights for extra security.

Without proper security, all your other efforts in brooding chicks can go to waste.

The 8 Brooding Principles Recap

1️⃣ Temperature Regulation – Maintain proper warmth and observe chick behavior.

2️⃣ Lighting – Adjust light hours for feeding and calm growth.

3️⃣ Feed & Water – Always provide clean water and quality feed.

4️⃣ Disease Management – Combine vaccination and biosecurity.

5️⃣ Litter Management – Keep litter dry, clean, and well-turned.

6️⃣ Spacing – Expand brooder area as chicks grow.

7️⃣ Ventilation – Ensure fresh air and control ammonia buildup.

8️⃣ Security – Protect chicks from predators and theft.

And that’s it — your 8 brooding principles for raising strong, healthy chicks. Follow them and you’ll never fear the brooding period again.

No more risky business of buying point-of-lay hens just because brooding feels hard. You’ll raise your own chicks, grow them into profitable layers, and keep every bit of the profit yourself.

Then you can even sell quality Point of Lay birds of you want to😅

Keep learning, keep improving, and always innovate — that’s how you grow in layer poultry farming.

> Remember ;
Master your brooding. Master your profits.

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October 31, 2025
The Story Of The 623 Silent Chickens
A Cold Morning On The Farm

It was one of those cold mornings that make you hug your jacket tighter.
Niss woke up refreshed. She’d slept deeply, peacefully. Nothing special had happened, but she felt calm inside — ready for another day on her layer poultry farm.

She went to her storage room to measure feed for her 22-week-old layer chickens. The morning was quiet.Too quiet.

Even as she neared the chicken house, not a single cluck or flutter broke the silence.

> “They must have slept well… just like me,” Niss thought with a smile.

But her smile faded. Her birds were never this quiet during feeding time.
Her heart began to race.

A Silent Chicken House

After disinfecting her shoes, she opened the door…..

and froze.

Inside, her chickens lay still on the litter.
Not one moved.
Not one made a sound.

She felt dizzy. Her chest tightened. She reached for one bird — cold. Another — the same.
All gone.

623 layer chickens. Silent. Dead.

Tears rolled down her face.
She had done everything right — all vaccines, feeding schedules, and hygiene routines.
There hadn’t been any sign of a disease outbreak nearby.

When Everything You Did Right Still Fails

Niss called the vet, her voice shaking. He arrived quickly, calm but serious.

> “Did you notice any signs of disease?” he asked.

“No,” Niss said. “They were fine last night. Though they didn’t finish their feed… and one bird looked sleepy, but it woke up.”

The vet took a few samples for postmortem testing and left her with words she would never forget.

Lessons No One Talks About

One day your chicken might all die. Not because you did something wrong, but because it just happens sometimes.
You have to be ready so you don’t give up.

✅ Diseases still attack even when birds are vaccinated.

✅ Vaccines are not 100% effective — always watch your flock closely.

✅ Isolate any sick-looking bird and call a poultry vet immediately.

✅ Never eat dead birds — you don’t know what killed them. It’s not safe for you.

✅ Sometimes, even when you do everything right, bad things just happen.

That day broke Niss’s heart.
But it also reminded her that farming isn’t just about feed and vaccines.
It’s about expecting for the worst and being ready, patience, discipline, and resilience.

Just like DR.STARR.

Because sometimes, you can do everything right… and still lose.
What matters is what you do next.

💬 Your Turn

Have you ever lost birds suddenly on your farm?
Share your experience in the comments — your story might help another poultry farmer avoid the same pain.

👉 Get a Free copy of my Layer Poultry Farming Guide and regular Layer Chicken Digest Tips here👇🏿

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October 29, 2025
NYOTA Fund : How I’d Use It To Build A Profitable Business
If someone gave you Ksh.50,000 today, what would you do with it?

This is how I would turn Ksh.50,000 (approximately $385) into a thriving business through the NYOTA Program Kenya.

The government of Kenya, through the NYOTA Program, is offering grants and training to empower Kenyan youth. It’s an amazing opportunity for those who qualify. Unfortunately, I don’t meet the criteria for application, but if I did, here’s exactly how I would use the funds to build a sustainable business.

Not something lifeless or short-term, but a venture with a real vision of growth.

It’s sad that many businesses started through such government programs die off within a year. Evidence from the earlier Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) shows that only a small percentage survive past five years.

That’s why I decided to share how I would personally use the NYOTA grant and the strategies I would apply to make the business last. I hope you’ll find value in it and maybe borrow a few ideas for your own plan.

By the way, congratulations if you received the grant!

Step 1 : Decide And Commit To One Business

The first thing I would do is make a clear decision and commit to one business. I would choose layer poultry farming — and I have good reasons for it which you can check here👇🏿

6 Reasons Why I Chose Layers Over Broilers

It’s something I’ve been studying and researching for a long time, and that focus gives me an edge.

There are many profitable opportunities out there. However, without clarity, it’s easy to end up confused and scattered.

So I would decide, commit, and lock in.
No broilers. No goats. No hotel. No forex.

Layer poultry farming only.

Step 2 : Learn

Before starting, I would spend one to two weeks learning everything about layer poultry farming. That means not just how to raise the birds, but also how to run the business side of things.

I’d study topics such as:

✅Brooding

✅Feeding

✅Disease management

✅Marketing and sales

✅Branding and negotiation

In addition, I would visit established layer farmers and learn directly from their experiences. I’d talk to egg traders — both wholesalers and retailers — to understand the egg business better.

I’d also reach out to poultry experts for practical advice.

Meanwhile, I would get a reliable internet connection for a week and binge-watch YouTube videos about layer poultry farming in Kenya. I’d read blogs, success stories, and mistake lists.

Of course, I would also check X, Facebook, and TikTok pages of farmers to see what works for them.

Secret Layers is already a good place to start for this kind of information — both technical poultry farming and business.

To help with this learning phase, I have a Free Layer Poultry Farming Guide you can get here 👇🏿

Free Layer Poultry Farming Guide

Another skill I would add is content creation. There are countless free online resources on how to make engaging and educational farming content.

After one or two weeks, I wouldn’t be an expert yet, but I’d know enough to start my layer farm confidently.

Step 3 : Start The Farm

Layer Chicken in a poultry house. While Ksh.50k won’t get you this at first, with a long term business strategy you can get here.

Next, I would begin the actual farm setup. My plan would be to start with 50 layer chickens. That’s enough to make sense as a business but still manageable for a beginner.

However, there’s one issue. Starting a 50-bird layer poultry farm in Kenya costs around Ksh.91,000, according to my recent research (see the cost breakdown here👇🏿

The True Cost Of Starting A Layer Poultry Farm

Yet, the NYOTA Program grant is only Ksh.50,000.

So how would I bridge that gap?

I have a plan — and I’ll share how to make it work. Just trust me and follow the logic to the end.

I would follow the exact process outlined in my Free guide to set up the farm and get my chicks started.

At this point, the farm would be running.

Now, layer chickens take about four and a half months before they begin laying eggs. That means no cash flow for about five months.

So what next?

Step 4 : Create Content Around My Farming Journey

During this waiting period, I would focus on creating content. I’d document my entire journey from day one — every success, failure, and lesson learned.

Don’t frown yet. Maybe if I say “teach people what I’m learning,” it will sound better. But yes, I’d share my journey publicly.

This would include content across YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, X, and Pinterest. However, I’d focus mainly on the three I use most — Facebook, X, and YouTube.

This approach is exactly how Secret Layers started — by teaching and documenting.

For instance you can watch the YouTube video of this blog post here👇🏿

https://youtu.be/0B_B0QsqW50?si=7NCNMw7cNJ7jBiQc

Setting up social media accounts is free. The only small cost would be basic content tools like a ring light, tripod stand, and microphone — not more than Ksh.3,000 ($23).

There are two main reasons for creating content:

1. To build a brand around my farm.
The content would serve as my marketing and branding engine.

2. To create a potential income stream.
In time, monetizing these platforms could bring in more money to grow the farm further.

At that point, I’d have two things running – a real farm and a growing online brand.

That’s the foundation of a long-term business.

Now The Secret To Make My Whole Plan To Work

Step 5 : Partner With Another Beneficiary

Now, remember that the cost of starting the 50-bird farm is Ksh.91,000, but the grant is only Ksh.50,000.

Here’s the secret to make it work.

I would partner with another NYOTA Program beneficiary. Together, we would combine our grants for a total of Ksh.100,000.

The NYOTA Program includes a training period before the funding phase. I’d use that time to identify a serious, like-minded partner — preferably someone from my area, maybe a friend, or someone who shares my farming vision.

Finding the right partner isn’t always easy, but it’s the smartest way to make this plan possible. And I would treat it like my life depended on it.

That’s my blueprint for how I would use the NYOTA Program grant to build a sustainable and profitable business.

You don’t need millions to start. With focus, learning, and creativity, you can turn Ksh.50,000 into something that grows year after year.

If you’ve received the NYOTA grant, congratulations again. Use it wisely, and build something that will last beyond five years.

💡 If you want to start your own layer poultry business..

Get my Free Guide: 6 Steps to Start a Profitable Layers Poultry Farm here👇🏿

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And I’d love to hear your thoughts — what would you do with your Ksh.50,000 NYOTA grant?

Let me know in the comments.

See you next Friday!

carlosdeche4040@gmail.com

secretlayerske@gmail.com
October 24, 2025
The Village Witch And The Farmer
A Quiet Night Turns Strange

Niss had just sold off her first batch of ex-layers.
It had been a successful run — her birds maintained an impressive 80% laying rate the entire period. For a first-time farmer, that was nothing short of amazing.

Now, she was taking a one-month break before bringing in her next batch. The chicken house needed time to dry after disinfection — an essential step to prevent disease transmission to new chicks.

But that also meant no income for a whole month.

She didn’t have enough savings to build another chicken house.
And for a moment, she wondered, What will I do now?

Voices In The Dark

That night, around midnight, Niss was woken by faint voices outside her house.
A woman’s voice.
It sounded like she was talking to herself.

“Is that the village witch?” Niss thought, half terrified.

She sprang out of bed and crept toward the door.
As she reached the hallway, the voices grew louder — but now there were two people.

Her heart pounded hard, pumping litres of blood to her legs, ready to sprint for her still-short dear life.

Then it hit her.
Wait. That’s coming from my daughters’ room.

She froze. Are they—? She didn’t want to finish that thought.

Listening closer, she realized the voices were indeed her two daughters.

When she asked why they were awake at midnight, their answer confused her even more. Something about a “masterclass” and “techniques” and “digital something.”

Niss didn’t get it — not that night. She went back to bed, uneasy but curious.

The Morning Revelation

By morning, after another round of questioning, she finally understood:
Her daughters had been attending an online masterclass on professional knitting.

That surprised her — but it also sparked a thought.
What if I did the same?

What if she taught others what she already knew so well — layer poultry farming?

She had seen people online making money teaching what they knew. Some even lived lavishly — nice cars, big houses, flashy lifestyles.

Before she could dream too far, her daughters interrupted her thoughts.

> “Mama, stop there,” they said.
“That internet life is a lie. But you can make money from YouTube — not to buy a sports car, but enough to cover slow months like this.”

That was all Niss needed to hear.

“Then show me how,” she said eagerly. “I want to start right now!”

Her daughters laughed.

> “Chill, Mama. Take it slow. Remember how you prepared before starting your layer farm? That’s what you need to do for this too.”

They were right.

Before she started her poultry business, Niss had done months of research — visiting farms, asking questions, taking notes. Skipping that process now would be against her own rules.

She had to learn again — this time, about content creation and online education.

The Turning Point

That morning, Niss made up her mind.
She would teach poultry farming online, just like she raised her chicks — step by step, carefully, consistently.

She would share her knowledge through videos, blog posts, and stories that help other farmers grow.

Maybe it would work. Maybe it wouldn’t.
But she was determined to earn that extra income — while teaching others the craft she loved.

Why Don’t You Try It?

If you’re a farmer, you probably have mountains of knowledge and experience others would love to learn from.

And sometimes, there are slow months — when you’re between flocks, waiting for the next batch, or the market is just quiet.

That’s when creating content can become your second source of income.
You teach, you inspire, and you make a little extra money — all while building your farm into a loveable, trusted brand.

So why not try it yourself?
Start small. Start real.
And remember, every great farm — and every great brand — starts with a single story.

Get a Free copy of my Beginner Layer Poultry Farming Guide here.

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October 22, 2025
The True Cost Of Starting A Layer Poultry Farm (2025)
You’ve decided it’s layers you want to keep on your farm, and you’re asking yourself: how much will it cost to start?
Or maybe you haven’t decided yet. Check the reason why I chose layers here — it will help you decide👇🏿

6 Reasons Why I Chose Broilers And Why You Should Too

You want to know how much you’ll need to start your farm.
You want to plan, budget, or save for it.
And you don’t want to be caught off guard by unforeseen costs or run out of money halfway through your project.

You’re also tired of seeing so many different startup costs on the internet.
Well, this is the realest startup cost estimate you’ll ever see.
This guide is for you.

Before We Start – 3 Things To Keep In Mind

1. No figure you see on the internet is exactly what you’ll need.
Don’t be happy if you find it’s little, and don’t be sad if it seems too much.

2. There are many assumptions to be made and considered.

3. It all depends on what you want and how you want it.

When you’re calculating the cost of starting a layer poultry farm, always remember these points. Every farm is unique.

Key Assumptions Used In This Guide

✅I used a standard price of Ksh. 4,000 for a 50 kg bag of feeds (starter, grower, and layers mash).
Feed prices vary by type and location in Kenya.

✅A price of Ksh. 150 per layer chick has been used (2025 prices).

✅Under feeds, you’ll need to prepare for starter, grower, and one month of layer mash in your startup costs.
That covers about six months before you sell your first egg.

✅No construction cost is included in these startup costs.
This is because building materials and labor prices vary widely from place to place.

✅Labour costs are also excluded since they differ depending on whether you hire help or work on your own.
Remember, even if you do all the work yourself, don’t forget to pay yourself a salary.

I calculated the startup costs for 50 birds based on poll results from the Secret Layers ;

Facebook and X pages.

Detailed Breakdown Of Startup Costs For 50 Layers

1. Chicks

60 × Ksh. 150 = Ksh. 9,000
I used 60 chicks to cover possible mortality — some chicks will die.

Tip: Don’t forget transport costs from the distributor or hatchery to your farm. Many farmers do.
I’ve included that under miscellaneous below.

2. Equipment

Estimated at Ksh. 10,000.
I used the equipment list from this 28 equipments post and realistic prices for what’s really needed when starting small.

3. Feed Costs

When planning the budget for layer farming, feed is your biggest expense.
Below is the estimate based on average poultry feed prices in Kenya in 2025.

Starter Mash

2.5 kg per bird in the first 8 weeks

50 birds × 2.5 kg = 125 kg

Since one 50 kg bag costs Ksh. 4,000:
125 kg × 4,000 ÷ 50 = Ksh. 10,000

Grower Mash

9 kg per bird for 11 weeks

50 birds × 9 kg = 450 kg

450 kg × 4,000 ÷ 50 = Ksh. 36,000

Layer Mash

3 kg per bird for 1 month before you start selling eggs

50 birds × 3 kg = 150 kg

150 kg × 4,000 ÷ 50 = Ksh. 12,000

Total feed cost:
10,000 + 36,000 + 12,000 = Ksh. 58,000

4. Medicines, Vaccines, and Supplements

Estimated at Ksh. 6,000 from start to selling of the batch.

5. Miscellaneous

Estimated at Ksh. 8,700 (about 15% of feed costs)
This covers day-to-day expenses, transport, and unexpected costs.
Always include a buffer in your layer chicken startup costs.

Total Startup Cost

9,000 + 10,000 + 58,000 + 6,000 + 8,700 = Ksh. 91,000

This is the estimated cost of starting a layer poultry farm with 50 birds in Kenya in 2025.

The true startup cost of starting a 50 bird layer poultry farm in Kenya.

Remember

✅ Construction costs (including cages or litter) are not included.

✅ I used 60 chicks to cover mortality.

✅ Transport costs are added under miscellaneous — most farmers forget this.

✅ Feed amounts include spillage and spoilage, which many startup guides ignore.

✅ Feed prices are standardized at Ksh. 4,000 per 50 kg bag, an average figure for 2025.

✅ A miscellaneous cost (15%) has been added for safety — almost everyone forgets this part.

Practical Tips To Lower Your Startup Costs

✅ Buy feeds in bulk (especially starter and grower mash).

✅ Improvise equipment instead of buying everything new.

✅ For housing, repurpose an existing structure or use cheap local materials.

✅ Negotiate prices and avoid building a fancy chicken house just for show.

Keeping your setup simple will significantly lower the cost of starting your farm.

This guide has given you a realistic picture of the cost of starting a layer poultry farm in Kenya.
With around Ksh. 91,000, you can start small with 50 layers, cover all basic costs, and begin your poultry business confidently.

Would you start with 50 birds or more?

Share your thoughts in the comments or tell me how you’re planning your layer poultry farming journey.

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October 17, 2025
The Funeral (Part Two)

If you missed part one read it here before you proceed👇🏿

The Funeral (Part One)

August 4th, 2025 — Monday

“Bye. Have a good day,” Niss said to the pickup driver.

She wiped her forehead. That was too much work for one day. All she wanted now was rest.

Just as she reached for her door, she heard a voice behind her.

“Enye.”

Enye is a Mijikenda word that means The Owners. It’s used as you would say, Hello. Anyone home?

Niss sighed. Who is this now? I just need a break.

“Enye,” she answered back, walking toward the gate.

It was her friend.

After ten long minutes of African-style greetings and laughter, her friend finally asked,
“I saw a pickup. What was it here for?”

What? Niss wondered. You came all the way here just to ask that?

Anyway.

“Those were feeds,” Niss said. “I bought feeds for my birds. They were just delivering them. How are you doing with yours?”

“Oh, me…” Her friend paused and smiled.

“You see, I realized that feeds are the most expensive cost on a layer farm.”

“Yes, that’s true,” Niss said confidently. “I spend crazy amounts of money on feed.”

“And I figured out the best way to cut that cost,” her friend went on, “is to make your own feed.”

She sounded proud.
“So now I’m talking to some farmers and companies — maize, soybeans, sunflower — trying to make deals so I can get the raw materials. That way, I’ll make my own feed. If I cut that cost, I’ll get more profit. These feed companies are exploiting us. I won’t be one of their victims.”

Niss nodded politely.

“Anyway, have a good day,” her friend said, turning toward home.

Niss just stood there. Her mind echoed one word: Why. Why. Why.

The Funeral (2)

October 15th, 2025 – Wednesday

Niss’s phone rang.
It was her friend again.

She picked it up half-heartedly.

“Guess what, Niss! I’ve gotten the contract!”

“What contract?” Niss asked, confused.

“For Ngerenya Secondary School! I talked to the principal. I told him I’m starting a one-thousand-bird layer farm and that I’d like to supply them eggs every week. And he said yes! I’m so happy.”

She went on, voice bubbling with excitement.
“Now I just need two more schools, and all my eggs will have a market once I start producing. I won’t even struggle.”

Niss felt heat rising in her chest. Her hands trembled.
Anger boiled inside her — not hate, but the kind that burns when someone just doesn’t get it.

She took a deep breath and said it.

“Friend.
Number one — the principal lied to you.
Number two — and most important — start your damn farm.

Which eggs will you sell?
Who will you be making the feeds for?
Which chickens did you buy the land for?

START your farm.”

Then she hung up.

It’s heartbreaking seeing your chicks.Whether on day one of arrival or any other time.

Was that the death of a dream?

Was it the end?

Was that the end of their friendship?
Niss didn’t know.
But at least she knew she’d told her friend the truth.

Are you like Niss’s friend?

You keep planning.
You keep talking.
You keep making deals.

But you never start.

If that’s you — start now.

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October 15, 2025
Receiving Day Old Chicks – Step By Step Guide

Brooding can feel like the scariest monster in poultry farming, yet receiving day old chicks doesn’t have to be terrifying if you know exactly what to do. Many farmers give up—or never start—because they fear brooding.

It is the most sensitive period in a chicken’s life, just like the first 28 days for humans.

The first day especially is critical. On day one, a small mistake can turn your joy into despair if all your chicks die. But I don’t want that for you. If you’ve read the 28 Equipment List and How to prepare for day old chicks arrival,now you must be ready for the moment your day old chicks arrive. This post walks you through receiving day old chicks, step by step, so there’s no guesswork when your chicks arrive (or when you pick them).

1. Pre-heat the brooder

Since day old chicks lack enough feathers, you need to control the brooding temperature carefully. Brooding is a temperature-sensitive phase, especially on day one.

Heat the brooder 2 to 3 hours before the chicks arrive. Aim for about 30–33 °C (this may vary by region and supplier).

If it’s cool, use your heat source; if hot, increase ventilation by adjusting windbreakers or openings.

2. Prepare glucose in water

Transport stresses chicks. They might arrive dehydrated and weak. So before they arrive, mix glucose in water. This gives them quick energy and helps them recover from the journey.

This simple act may mean the difference between 100% survival and full mortality. Be ready—this solution must already be in place when the chicks arrive. Consult your vet for recommended doses.

3. Count your chicks

Once your day old chicks arrive, first count them. Whether the supplier brings them or you pick them up, counting ensures you got the number you ordered. Some may die during transit, so count.

Some suppliers often compensate or replace dead chicks later.

4. Weigh your chicks

Weighing helps track uniform growth. Though the hatchery may have done this, it’s best practice to weigh again on your farm. For most breeds, a day-old chick should weigh around 45 grams. Record this as your baseline for later comparisons.

5. Dip their beaks in water

When placing chicks into the brooder, gently dip their beaks into the glucose water. This teaches them how to drink and helps them find the water.

If you have helpers, have them assist in this step so it’s efficient and calm.

6. Introduce feed

Allow the chicks 2–3 hours after arrival to hydrate and calm down. Then begin introducing feed. Use brooder paper (newspapers, carton, etc.). Put feed in their feeders and also sprinkle some on the paper so they can see and find it easily. Within a short time, they’ll move to the feeders on their own.

7. Monitor crop fill

Several hours later (and then at least twice that day), check the crop of each chick. The crop is that small pouch in their neck. Inspect it to confirm they are feeding and drinking.

Full & soft → good (they ate and drank)

Empty → no feed or water yet

Full & hard → ate but did not drink

Full & very soft → drank but not ate

Your goal: at least 80% of chicks with full and soft crops indicates most chicks have found water and feed.

8. Provide light

Chicks need light to find feed and water. During day one of brooding, ensure there is enough light—even if they arrive in the evening or in darkness.

For layers, start with ~21 hours of continuous light for a few days, then gradually reduce to 14–16 hours daily.

9. Monitor closely

One day old chicks received today in a proper brooder with light,heat,water and feed.

Receiving day old chicks is just the start. The real work lies in ongoing care. Monitor:

Brooder temperature

Feed and water intake via crop checks

Growth (weigh daily or often)

Mortality

Consistent monitoring separates good farmers from those who rely only on remote advice.

10. Vaccinate

If your chicks weren’t vaccinated against Marek’s disease at the hatchery, make sure you do it on day one. This vaccine protects them from a deadly viral infection that causes paralysis and poor growth. Always confirm with your supplier, and if it hasn’t been done, call your vet to administer it immediately.

Don’t delay this step—it’s one of the most important early protections for your day old chicks.

This guide gives you a clear, step-by-step plan for receiving day old chicks. No confusion, no guesswork. Yes, some chicks might die—that’s expected—but with this approach, mortality should be far lower than going in blind.

As you get started, I also encourage you to think ahead: how will you add value to your eggs? Check my 6 proven ways to add value to your eggs post.

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October 10, 2025
The Funeral (Part One)

January 7th, 2025 – Tuesday

Schools had opened for the new year. The laughter, the shouting, the morning rush — all gone. Now, the neighborhood was dead quiet, like the calm after a storm.

“You know, Niss,” her friend said, breaking the silence. “That thing we talked about — keeping layers. We should do it. It’s a good idea.”

“Yeah, absolutely,” Niss replied. “I’ve been preparing. Reading, researching… there’s a ton of information in blogs, articles, even YouTube videos. It looks promising. I think I’m ready to start.”

“Really? Well, good for you.” Her friend smiled. “How many are you planning to start with?”

“I don’t know. I don’t mind starting with a hundred birds. It depends on how much money I can get.”

“A hundred?” Her friend’s eyebrows shot up. Niss suddenly wondered what she’d said wrong.

“How much profit will you even get from that? So small.”

“Here’s my plan,” her friend whispered, leaning forward like she was about to share a secret. “I’m planning to start big — massive profits, you know? I want not less than a thousand birds. I heard an expert say anything less than that is pointless.”

She paused, frowning. “But you know my piece of land — it’s small. If I keep a thousand birds, I’ll have no room left for maize or cassava. So for now, I’m saving. I want to buy a bigger plot. I hear Be Kanze is selling part of his land. That’s what I’m aiming for. When I start, it’ll be big — and fast.”

“What do you think?” she asked.

“I think it’s a dead plan,” Niss said flatly. “Let’s start with what we can for now.”

“Not true. Just wait and see,” her friend replied, folding her arms.

After a few more rounds of back-and-forth, Niss finally walked back home, unsure if she’d made her point — or lost it.

The Funeral

It’s heartbreaking seeing your chicks die. Whether on day one of arrival or any other time. It’s so tough.

April 28th, 2025 – Monday

“Hey, what’s that?” a voice called out behind her.

Niss turned. It was her friend.

“I’m burying two of my chicks. They died overnight,” Niss said quietly.

“Chicks? Dead? What chicks?” her friend asked, puzzled.

“Layer chicks — the ones we talked about. I bought a hundred and fifty. Now they’re a hundred and forty. Ten have died so far. I spoke to the vet, and he said a few deaths are normal. But it shouldn’t be too many.”

“See? I told you. If you’d waited, this wouldn’t be happening. Plus, if you had a thousand birds and lost a hundred, you’d still have nine hundred left. That’s still good money,” her friend said, voice laced with concern.

“Where are you with your plan?” Niss asked.

“Oh, I’ve got the land now,” her friend said proudly. “So I’m saving for the next step — the structure, the chicks, equipment, and feeds. I heard prices have gone up again. Once I’ve saved enough, I’ll hire a contractor and buy my chicks.” She smiled, confident.

“That’s good,” Niss said slowly, “but I think you’re wasting time.”

“No, I’m not. Just wait and see.”

Niss sighed and turned away. Maybe she should wait.

For now.

But she knew that this was the day she had buried her inexperience in brooding. The day of the funeral..

(Part 2 drops next week Friday)

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October 8, 2025
How To Prepare For Day Old Chicks Arrival

You have already placed your order for day old layer chicks, and now you must prepare before they reach your farm. Many farmers forget one or two crucial steps, and that mistake can be dangerous. Even if you think you know everything, skipping a small detail can put your beautiful chicks at risk.

This guide gives you the complete list of things you need to have ready before your chicks arrive. Make sure you follow it carefully so that you do not miss anything. Brooding is the most sensitive stage of a chick’s life, and it is also when the highest mortality rates happen. Imagine losing 70% of your birds on the very first day just because you were not ready.

As the saying goes: “If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.”

1. Delivery date

First, know the delivery date. It is important to confirm and know the exact delivery date. Most hatcheries supply only on order, and some may take weeks or even months before delivery. By knowing the date, you can prepare in advance and avoid being caught off guard. Being unprepared on delivery day can decide whether your chicks survive or die.

2. Biosecurity

Disinfect your chicken house and brooder area at least two weeks before the chicks arrive. Clean every part of the house—floor, roof, windows, and even the space around the house. This reduces early disease risks and helps ensure brooder cleanliness. Without this step, chicks may face infections that cause high mortality.

Next, prepare a footbath for everyone entering the poultry house on the day your chicks arrive. This simple measure protects your chicks from harmful germs.

3. Heat Source

Temperature control is key for brooding. Therefore, make sure your source of heat is working before the chicks arrive. If you plan to use charcoal or firewood, store enough to last the entire brooding period, which usually runs between three to eight weeks. Running out of fuel can leave your chicks cold and weak.

4. Light Source

Day old layer chicks in a brooder. They are crowded at the light.

During the first week, your layer chicks need at least 20 hours of light daily. This is not optional. Without enough light, their feeding and growth will suffer. If you depend on electricity, plan for backup power. If you have no electricity, get solar lights ready and tested in advance.

5. Brooder Setup

Because you will brood your chicks, you must set up a proper brooder. A future post will explain this in detail, but here is what you need for now:

A round brooding structure

Brooder paper (you can use alternatives if necessary)

Litter at least 4 inches thick

Proper ventilation for fresh air

A good brooder keeps chicks warm, safe, and comfortable.

6. Equipment

Clean and disinfect feeders and drinkers at least two days before the chicks arrive. Then leave them out to dry completely. Using dirty or damp equipment can spread diseases to your flock.

Here’s the list of 28 equipment you’ll need for your layer farm.

7. Food And Water

Have enough starter mash ready to last through the brooding period. Chicks cannot wait for you to buy feed later.

In addition, prepare a source of clean water. Water is even more critical than feed. Whether you use municipal water, well water, or stored water, make sure it is safe for human drinking. If you cannot drink it, do not give it to your birds.

8. Medicines and Vaccines

Chicks often face stress in the first days. Supplements such as glucose help them recover. From day seven, vaccines become necessary. While vaccines must be bought and used the same day, you should know in advance where to get them. Do not wait until vaccination day to start looking.

Now you know how to prepare for day old layer chicks. With the right planning, you can give them the best care and reduce losses.
Receive them right and they’ll serve you well – you know, with eggs 😅

If you have any questions about any of the 8 things – amount, timing, effort or anything, type in the comments and I’ll answer it.

See you next Friday!

carlosdeche4040@gmail.com

secretlayerske@gmail.com

October 3, 2025