I hatch my chickens based on how well they survive, how well they find their own food, and how good they are as mothers. Laying eggs is important to me, but it is not the most important thing. As long as each chicken lays at least two eggs a week, I am happy because I have enough chickens that it all balances out.

Before I start collecting eggs to hatch, I usually put a few chickens aside. These are the ones that needed too much help during the year. This might mean they needed extra food because they did not forage well, got sick often, or were injured a lot. 

I still feed all my chickens and always provide clean water, but I limit how much food they get so they are encouraged to find food on their own.
Because of the way I raise my chickens, they stay healthy and active, and I do not have to rely heavily on store-bought feed. 

Even with a fairly large flock, I only spend about $75 every two months on food, while still keeping my birds happy, well-fed, and in good condition.
I live next to a large wooded area, and my land goes far into the woods. 

Because of this, my chickens can find plenty of natural food like bugs and plants. In the winter, I give them more food since there is less vegetation and fewer insects.
I still treat my chickens for common problems like mites and coccidiosis, and I have a coop for them. Some chickens prefer to sleep in trees, and I allow that.

 It is very important to me that my chickens can survive without much help because storms in my area could force me to leave for an unknown amount of time. I do not want my chickens to die just because I am not there. Some of my chickens are also too wild to easily catch and take with me.

If a chicken is too wild, I may separate it during breeding season so I can still check its health and handle it if needed. I do not mind if a chicken struggles a little, as long as it does not panic or fight aggressively.

My goal is to raise chickens that are strong, healthy, and able to take care of themselves while still being productive and easy enough to manage when needed.

For Those of You That Breed Your Own Chickens, What Traits Do You Prioritize?