Hatch your own. Why it matters: When egg prices skyrocket, more Americans consider getting — and even renting — backyard chickens. By the numbers: 11 million U.S. households have backyard chickens, making chickens the third most popular pet in the country,

With egg prices still on the rise, more people are considering raising their own chickens to save money. But before jumping in, experts say it’s important to understand the costs involved.