Experts say raising chickens isn’t likely to save many inflation-weary consumers money amid the spike in egg prices. But for Johnson, among a growing number of Americans expressing interest in backyard chickens, the money spent is well worth it.

Are backyard chickens the answer to the egg shortage? In February, eggs hit an all-time high of $8.12 per dozen! And according to the USDA, prices could climb another 20% this year.

A bill in the Idaho Legislature would lower restrictions for allowing chickens in residential areas. The impetus for the legislation from Sen. Tammy Nichols, R-Middleton, is in part high prices and the shortage of eggs at the grocery store.