Breeders in NH...

[poochgrmr]

Looking to become a chicken person this Spring...feel like I am one already though.
Is there an easy way to find a list of breeders in NH/ME? Not sure what I want for chickens yet, but I'd like a mixture of 8. I'd prefer not to purchase from a hatchery. I know there are pros and cons either way but want to check into local breeders also. I'd like to purchase week old chicks so another question...if a breeder has one breed is it so hard to introduce a couple more a week or so apart? Another question..if I prefer no roos should I just go with the hatchery or do some breeders take the roos back. Thanks.

 

[keesmom]

If you want a mixture of very young pullet only chicks then you're probably better off sticking with a hatchery.

If you do want to try the local breeder route then get twice as many chicks as you want to keep since on average 50% will be boys, then sell off the cockerels once you've identified them. But first you need to decide which breeds you want!

Oh, I've never had a problem combining chicks that were a week or so in age difference.

 

[theheat]

I also am looking for breeders in the NH area. I'd prefer not to go the hatchery route and I wouldn't mind driving out of state (in the New England area).
I'm not going to be picky about the breed, although I'd like heritage breeds. And I'll go w/ either chicks or eggs.

Any info/tips would be helpful!

 

[flyingtnh]

Clark's Grain is taking orders for their April "Chick Day." They're hatchery chicks, but you get the bonus of their service and advice. Call and talk to Judy "The Chicken Lady" at the Chichester store. I think she's off on Sun and Mon but works most other days. www.clarksgrain.com

 

[Heritage Hens]

Pooch, is central Vermont too far to drive? We have Orpingtons (black, blue, white and splash) and Buff Orpingtons. As has been stated above, we cannot guarantee the gender of the chicks.

However, Orpingtons are such a mild mannered breed that they don't do well with some other breeds who are aggressive and very dominant. They do get along well with our guineas, some of whom are very dominant but there isn't any bullying going on. They all seem to find their place in the barn.

 

[m.kitchengirl]

There are a lot of poultry swaps in NH & Maine. Have you checked the "Where I am/Where are you?" section? The Maine & NH threads & Maine & NH swap threads are very active.
I have gotten most of my critters from poultry swaps & they are wonderful, healthy birds. I got to ask the breeders lots of questions & meet the people who raised my chicks. I will be adding to my flock from the swaps this year. Much better than having birds shipped. Most people talk about what they are breeding, hatching, etc on the local threads, so you can stalk the breeders you like & get good pick of birds.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/357963/new-hampshire-3

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/301004/chicken-swaps-of-n-h-swap-listings

Good luck!

 

[Egghead_Jr]

There is an indoor swap this March 10th. You must purchase 12 chicks at swaps per NH law though can purchase any number 4 week olds.

This is the thread that is current chat and stays current listing the swaps:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...of-nh-2012-swap-listings-indoor-swap-march-10

 

[vnsseed]

I also am looking for breeders in the NH area. I'd prefer not to go the hatchery route and I wouldn't mind driving out of state (in the New England area).
I'm not going to be picky about the breed, although I'd like heritage breeds. And I'll go w/ either chicks or eggs.

Any info/tips would be helpful!

What Heritage breeds are you looking for? We have Dominiques, Speckled Sussex, Red Dorkings, and soon, Nankins. All ALBC Heritage breeds.

 

[theheat]

Hi Dave,

I already contacted you and am putting in an order for March! Thanks, I'm very excited!

 

[vnsseed]

Hi Dave,

I already contacted you and am putting in an order for March! Thanks, I'm very excited!

LOL... it's so hard sometimes when you don't have a name with the BYC ID.