As farmers are forced to slaughter millions of chickens per month to prevent the spread of the bird flu, average prices for a dozen Grade A eggs in the United States increased to $4.95 in January, the AP reported, passing the previous record of $4.82 two years ago. The Department of Agriculture predicts a further 20% price increase this year.

Egg lovers are getting creative. A private company — RentTheChicken.com — offers to connect consumers across the country to suppliers that rent out laying hens and portable coops, with prices ranging from about $500 to $1,000 for a seven-month rental.

Things aren't looking too sunny side up for restaurants in Tallahassee and elsewhere: Egg prices continue to increase and so far there's no sign of egg-flation easing up anytime soon.

As the bird flu outbreak impacts egg shortages and prices, some people are turning to renting or buying backyard chickens.

Egg prices soar, consumers look for alternative options

The Market at EastPoint prides itself on healthier and affordable food options, but because of the increase in egg prices, it is forcing customers to leave them on the shelf, resulting in a financial loss for the store.

Egg prices in the Charlotte area have surged by up to 175% in less than two months, with some stores now charging as much as $7.99 per dozen.