This is seemingly a trivial subject - as one might imagine urban (back yard) chickens are probably a small contributor to childhood lead poisoning. However I chose to put this page together for a few reasons:
• In October 2008 there was a discussion on Lead-net (an online network of lead poisoning prevention advocates, professionals and policy makers) about urban chickens and the potential toxicity.
I wanted to tie these conversations together so that urban chicken farmers (and those considering the activity) don’t blindly consider the pros without understanding the cons, particularly the potential poisoning of their children. I also chose to write this piece/ assemble these facts, because the Tribune article stated that Portland, Oregon has more urban chickens per capita than any other city in America—so it seemed like a good time to address this issue.
1. Here is a link to the Portland Tribune Article from February 12, 2009