It's a familiar sight for most of us here in New Orleans: neighborhood streets lined with beautiful old houses, friendly porches and, that's right... chickens.
Most of these feral fowl escaped from backyard coops that were destroyed during Hurricane Katrina. Urban farming has many benefits, but if you do decide to try it out, there are some important things to consider. Without proper management, backyard farm populations can quickly grow out of control and create a feral population which can negatively impact our ecosystem and community.
Backyard farmers should also be aware that roosters are no longer allowed in Orleans Parish.
In 2011, the Times-Picayune reported on the post-Katrina feral chicken population. If you're thinking about raising animals in your yard, make sure you review your city's animal ordinances. You can find a list of regulations for raising animals in New Orleans here (article VI).
Do you have thoughts on urban farming in New Orleans? Or some great feral chicken pictures? Maybe your neighbor keeps a goat in his backyard? We want to hear about it! Tweet @WWNO with your urban farming stories and pictures, and hashtag them #animallife.
