Odd Lots A Major American Egg Farm Just Lost 90% of its Chickens
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Jun 7, 2025 
Glenn Hickman, president of Hickman's Egg Ranch, shares the alarming impact of a bird flu outbreak that decimated 90% of his chicken stock. He delves into the implications for egg prices and the industry's struggles with biosecurity and vaccine regulations. Hickman also discusses the daunting process of rebuilding his flock and the financial hurdles that come with it. Additionally, he highlights the concerning concentration of power in agriculture, revealing the challenges faced by small farmers in today's market.
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Massive Chicken Loss at Hickman's Egg Ranch
- Glenn Hickman's Hickman's Egg Ranch lost 95% of its chickens due to bird flu since November.
- The outbreak spread to all their farms, affecting about six million birds currently being depopulated.
Bird Flu Became Endemic in U.S.
- Bird flu is now endemic in several environments across the U.S.
- Wild birds and vermin continuously test positive, making total eradication very hard without vaccination.
Reasons Behind Egg Price Decline
- Despite ongoing bird flu, egg prices have fallen due to reduced demand, summer seasonal effects, and imports.
- Consumers sought alternatives during high prices, and egg imports from other countries also supplied the market.