I realize this is not a new question, but everyone's situation is different.
I started my chicken experience with 5 chicks last April. They grew into four fine laying hens and one that had a genetic problem and never matured. This last one vanished without a trace about three months ago. My best layer and best chicken all around, was taken by an unknown predator last week.
I now have two Orpingtons and one Easter Egger. I would like to have more. I don't need more eggs, but if I lose another chicken I will. My coop is big enough for five chickens maximum.
I could get two started pullets and go through the quarantine and introduction. Or I could raise two more chicks and introduce them when they are big enough. I see pros and cons both ways.
If I get chicks, there will be more of an age difference, which works in my favor down the road. If I get pullets, I have eggs right away and maybe less work, although the quarantine sounds harder than raising chicks.
If I get chicks, I have the fun of seeing what they grow up to look like, and the fun of the first egg. I can also control their upbringing, socially. But pullets are ready to go and probably a lot less work.
I welcome opinions.
I started my chicken experience with 5 chicks last April. They grew into four fine laying hens and one that had a genetic problem and never matured. This last one vanished without a trace about three months ago. My best layer and best chicken all around, was taken by an unknown predator last week.
I now have two Orpingtons and one Easter Egger. I would like to have more. I don't need more eggs, but if I lose another chicken I will. My coop is big enough for five chickens maximum.
I could get two started pullets and go through the quarantine and introduction. Or I could raise two more chicks and introduce them when they are big enough. I see pros and cons both ways.
If I get chicks, there will be more of an age difference, which works in my favor down the road. If I get pullets, I have eggs right away and maybe less work, although the quarantine sounds harder than raising chicks.
If I get chicks, I have the fun of seeing what they grow up to look like, and the fun of the first egg. I can also control their upbringing, socially. But pullets are ready to go and probably a lot less work.
I welcome opinions.
