Chicks vs older pullets

[DraftXJumper]

So, I recently discovered that two of my girlies are boys... I would like to round out my flock to what's allowed in town (can't have any empty positions!). I am debating ordering more chicks to raise myself, or buying pullets from a local person with too many. I like the idea of knowing she's actually a she, and getting eggs sooner. However, I like to raise my chickens to be as friendly as reasonably possible, and that makes me lean toward getting fresh chicks. Anyone have an opinion they'd like to share? If I could take a local pullet that is not used to handling and have a chance at turning her friendly, I'm totally open to that. I have the patience and experience to tame animals (grew up on a farm), but some are just too old/set in their ways & experiences to change.

 

[dfalco]

I've read some breeds are friendlier and calmer than others. Personally, I would give it a try. With a small flock and giving them lots of routine and careful attention, I think most any hen will warm up to you. I do have limited experience, but that has been my experience so far.

 

[Chickassan]

This is true! Once they figure out you're the food person you're good as gold.You might always have one or two that act like you've got the plague but that's life with chickens.

 

[DraftXJumper]

Thank you so much for your advice, everyone! I will likely give the older pullets a try. I spent many days as a little kid on the farm taming feral cats, so I know a little patience goes a very long way! Not all of the girls may end up being as friendly as pets, but even if a few of them are happy to see us, I'll be happy

 

[Sunny-Side Up]

How old are your chickens? The older they get, the more dangerous it is to add chicks... Diseases and bullying. I would probably say get pullets. Just make sure, when you get them, that they aren't sick or old- lots of people say things about their chickens when they're selling them that aren't true. When you get them, slowly introduce the flock to them so they hopefully won't get bullied or transfer diseases.

 

[DraftXJumper]

Right now, my girls are just 5 weeks old still living in the brooder at night and free ranging during the day (supervised). I was hoping to find some similarly-aged pullets so that we don't have a big bullying problem. I will be quarantining the newcomers and introducing them thru a fence of some kind when the time comes. They ought to be within three weeks of age.