Free-range layers — the numbers that work

I run 200 Lohmann Browns. They cost about R120 each as point-of-lay pullets. Feed is R6,500/month for the flock. Each hen lays ~280 eggs/year. At R55/dozen, that's about R1,280 per hen per year in revenue vs ~R500 in feed. The margin is good but you need to hit 80%+ lay rate. Keep them stress-free, give them proper roosting space, and don't skimp on layer mash quality.