Adopt-a-Chicken Program: 5 Reasons to Get Involved
Have you ever considered adopting a chicken? The University of Alberta’s Adopt-a-Chicken program offers a unique opportunity to sponsor a heritage chicken while supporting poultry research. Here are five compelling reasons why you should consider participating in this program:
1. Unique Heritage Breeds
The Heritage Chickens program, established in 1986, focuses on conserving rare genetic lines of six heritage chicken breeds. These breeds, including Barred Plymouth Rock, Brown Leghorn, White Leghorn, New Hampshire, Light Sussex, and Rhode Island Red, have made significant contributions to the poultry industry. By sponsoring a chicken, you can support the preservation of these unique genetic lines.
2. Scientific Impact
The genetic diversity of heritage chickens makes them valuable research subjects. Their unique genetic and physiological traits provide insights into the evolution of poultry species and serve as an important resource for future poultry industry challenges, such as climate change and emerging diseases.
3. Educational Experience
By participating in the Adopt-a-Chicken program, you not only support heritage breeds but also gain a deeper understanding of food production. Subscribers receive bi-weekly newsletters, recipes, and updates about chicken care, fostering a connection between consumers and their food sources.
4. Unique Egg Experience
Each carton of eggs from the program contains a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, reflecting the genetic diversity of the heritage chickens. By sponsoring a chicken, you get to enjoy a truly unique egg experience that goes beyond what you find in a typical grocery store.
5. Community Impact
Not only does the Heritage Chickens program contribute to poultry research, but it also supports students facing food insecurity. By donating excess eggs and reusable egg cartons, the program helps address food access issues within the community.
Join the Program
With over a decade of success, the Adopt-a-Chicken program continues to make a difference in both the community and the poultry industry. If you’re interested in supporting heritage breeds and learning more about food production, consider adopting a chicken through the program. Visit the program website for more information.
About the Program
The Adopt-a-Chicken program, part of the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences at the University of Alberta, aims to conserve rare genetic lines of heritage chickens. Since its inception in 2013, the program has been supported by staff, faculty, participants, and industry partners to promote genetic diversity and sustainable poultry practices.
Source: The University of Alberta
