Livestock Production Systems
Incorporating livestock into the homesteading practice provides numerous benefits and is a significant step towards self-sustainability. Keeping bees, chickens, ducks, or quails to larger animals like pigs, goats, cows or horses, each adds unique value to the property while also maintaining critical functions such as food production or animal by-products (ie. wool for fiber crafts).
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Keeping livestock (such as goats) contributes positively by grazing which helps manage plant growth, producing manure that enriches soil fertility for better pasture or vegetable gardening. Additionally, their presence also aids in pest control – chickens are well-known for controlling insect populations. Successfully managing these farm chores not only fosters greater enjoyment but also reduces expenses on external resources like fertilizer or pesticides, and thereby helps to work towards a chemical-free regenerative homesteading practice.
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Chickens and quails are a popular choices for their low maintenance needs and ability to provide eggs and meat. Ducks can also be beneficial as they eat insects, help control pests, and produce nutritious eggs. Goats require more space but can be used for milk production or clearing land with their browsing habits. Pigs are great for turning over soil in preparation for planting while providing flavourful pork. Cows will require larger pastures - and are best suited to Traditional Homesteads - though they offer dairy products or meat depending on the breed chosen. Ultimately, choosing the right livestock will depend on what aligns best with your homesteading goals and capabilities.
Right Livestock - Right Size - Right Location
Choosing the right livestock for a homestead is an important decision that should be based on individual circumstances and preferences. Factors to consider are:
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Local Council regulations for dwellings (especially if located in the CBD or residential suburban zones)
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available space at the homestead
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the amount of time a person is willing to commit in caring for livestock
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any goals and desired outcomes for keeping livestock (ie. selling honey, trading eggs for supplies) ​
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Urban Homesteaders tend to keep the following livestock:
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European Bees (Apiculture) NOTE: only two beehives allowed in suburban areas
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Stingless Native Bees (Meliponiculture) NOTE: no restriction on the amount of hives kept
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Worms (Vermiculture)
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Chickens - but NO ROOSTERS
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Quails
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Ducks
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Geese
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Pigeons
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Miniature Goats
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Miniature Pigs​
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Micro-Homesteaders tend to keep the following livestock:
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European Bees (Apiculture) NOTE: two beehives maximum - are allowed on top of apartments or high-rise building with permission of Body Corporate)
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Stingless Native Bees (Meliponiculture) NOTE: hives can be positioned on top of apartments or high-rise building with permission of Body Corporate)
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Chickens or Quails (the coop can be incorporated within the gardens of the apartments, and the chicken or quail manure can be used as garden fertiliser - with permission of Body Corporate. NO ROOSTERS ALLOWED) ​
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Mealworms
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Worms (vermiculture)
Build it - and they will come
To ensure the safety and well-being of your livestock, it is crucial to prepare your homestead by building suitable housing, shelter frames, secure fencing, and access to a constant water supply in all temperatures. It is important to also be aware of potential predators that may exist within your homestead area.
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Identify needs according to animal type: Chickens require a secure coop with ample ventilation, while pigs might need an open shed with electric fencing for containment.
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Make a plan for fencing: Consider using electric fencing especially for pigs and larger animals like goats or horses.
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Construct adequate shelter: For instance, ducks may benefit from simple shelter structures whereas rabbits will need a designed hutch to protect them from weather elements and predators.
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Prioritize security: Ensure that all housing is predator-proof to keep your livestock safe at all times.
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Install heating mechanism for water supply: Use electric heated water bowls to ensure constant animal hydration even in subfreezing temperatures.
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Purchase the proper tools and protection gear needed to care for the livestock: Beekeeeper suits and smokers must be bought before the hive arrives at the homestead.
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Have everything in place before the livestock arrive: This ensures that you have ample time for any necessary adjustments, contributing greatly to your homesteading enjoyment.
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Livestock safety is a critical aspect of successful homesteading, especially with potential threats from predators in the area. A thorough understanding of these potential risks, coupled with proper use of electric fencing and strategic animal housing placements, significantly reduces possible attacks. Communicate with neighbours about your livestock plans and predation concerns in your area. Ensure grain feed access points are placed strategically to avoid attracting unwanted wildlife or vermin which may carry diseases.
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One crucial aspect of managing livestock on your homestead is ensuring a reliable and ample water supply for your livestock, regardless of the temperature. Water is essential for their hydration, digestion, and overall well-being. With proper planning and equipment in place, homesteaders can ensure that their livestock have access to clean and fresh water at all times.
With proper care and planning, raising livestock can be a rewarding activity that leads to a more self-sufficient, sustainable, and fulfilling homesteading lifestyle.