Buying new chicks/eggs

[Criticalicious]

If your goal is higher quality birds, I recommend looking for a breeder near you rather than a big hatchery. You may pay a little more, but you're likely to get better genetics and often times, they may have started pullets (POL) available, especially if you're not too picky about breeds. Check your state's NPIP list of breeders. Plus you'll be choosing from breeds that are proven hardy in your climate.

 

[cmom]

Everyone is different and have different circumstances. Depending on what you want to do with your birds may help in your decision on what breeds you would like. You can always change your mind down the road. I have had many different breeds in the past. In the past I had chicken only for eating eggs and meat, then at one time I got involved with the local 4-H and FFA and hatched out chicks (Buff Orpingtons) for the kids to raise and show. I did some experimental breeding's in the past (Sex-Links). It has taken a lot of years but now I'm getting old and have certain breeds I'm now working with, and these will be my last breeds. Now I raise show quality lines. It has taken many years of selective breeding to get the birds to my idea of the APA SOP. I initially went to a poultry show as an observer, then decided to show some birds out of curiosity of how the birds would place. The birds have placed well. Initially, I sought out top breeders for advice and birds to start my own flocks with. I made arrangements to pick up the birds at a show. They are wonderful people and very helpful. I've learned a lot and my breeding program has improved. Now I can look at a birds traits and breed certain females with a certain male. The chicks have come out great. I will be showing some starting in the spring. I am going to the Lake City, Florida show (The Florida Sunshine Classic) in a couple of weeks, but mainly to pick up a male bird from the breeder I have gotten birds from in the past, to keep that line pure. I'm having eye issues so I can't drive right now and have a ride up. Looking forward to getting a new male (White Leghorn). Here is a picture of a male that was a Reserve Champion at a show. A fox or Coyote got my backup male a few months ago ( I sold the rest of the males prior), and I always like to have backup males for my breeds of choice. Good luck and have fun...

 

[5.3acredream]

12-17 dollars for sexed pullets. You could also get a variety box of 12 for 180. So yea a bit higher than most hatcheries but they are of good quality. He also does 20 for $13 each.

Well shoot, for those prices, someone buy the variety box from Alchemist Farm and tell me how lovely the chicks are! I've been ogling their color breeding program for a while now... ahhh...