North to Alaska!

[wingedshade]

Some kind of netting over the top is good. Along with regular predators like hawks and owls I'd keep an eye out for ravens too. I don't think they'd bother adults, but they might go for chicks. I'm going to put net on my run, but I would rather have a wooden framed run with a more fence like material over the top.

 

[Alaskan]

Fishing nets works great in the summer, but snow pulls it down.

I have switched to wire tops.

And yes, raven will kill chickens.

 

[kmarvin]

Does anyone have a source for fertile hatching eggs or day old chicks that is either in Alaska or ships to?

 

[wingedshade]

I bought some on eBay. They are in the incubator now, so I don't know about fertility.
I'd suggest going on Facebook and check if someone in your area setup a barter/sale group for locals, and ask there. Or check Craig's list. Even if someone isn't offering, you can make a request ad. Some hatchery sell eggs too, but they are kinda spendy and shipping stress can reduce hatch rates.

I think from these guys it's probably cheaper to buy chicks.
https://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/heavy_assorted_chicken_eggs.html

 

[kmarvin]

I bought some on eBay. They are in the incubator now, so I don't know about fertility.
I'd suggest going on Facebook and check if someone in your area setup a barter/sale group for locals, and ask there. Or check Craig's list. Even if someone isn't offering, you can make a request ad. Some hatchery sell eggs too, but they are kinda spendy and shipping stress can reduce hatch rates.

I think from these guys it's probably cheaper to buy chicks.
https://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/heavy_assorted_chicken_eggs.html

 

[kmarvin]

Thanks for the ideas. I've ordered eggs from mypetchicken to be shipped on a few weeks but am not very optimistic as to the hatch rate I'll get since they are shipping from so far away.

 

[wingedshade]

That's what I've heard about shipping eggs too. That's why I got cheap ones, but with shipping it still ended up being about $1.50 an egg. No pure breeds either, those go for a lot even on eBay.

 

[Alaskan]

Alaska Flock Talk on Facebook has lots of backyard breeders, some with fancy breeds, some with mixes.... But it is a great place to get local chicks and eggs.

 

[kmarvin]

Alaska Flock Talk on Facebook has lots of backyard breeders, some with fancy breeds, some with mixes.... But it is a great place to get local chicks and eggs.

Thanks! That's super helpful!

 

[Alaskan]

Welcome!