Hatcheries that sell older chicks

[cjpines]

Hi, I live near Sacramento, CA. I'm looking for older Bantum chicks, age 6-12 weeks old. I know they are hard to sex until they are older and I can't take a chance getting a rooster

Does anyone know of hatcheries that may sell older Bantum chicks?

 

[dealfinder500]

You will probably not find a hatchery that will ship older chicks. The USPS only allows them to ship day old chicks. Your best bet may be to check out Craigslist or see if there is a poultry auction in your area.

Some hatcheries will ship started pullets (standard sized chickens that are just about to lay), and I assume they use a different carrier? But anyways, that's terribly expensive, and I've never seen any offer bantams.

 

[cjpines]

It's been hard to find Bantams older anywhere. And I do agree it could be expensive. I will check with Craigslist. Thank you.

 

[donrae]

Hatcheries sell day old chicks only, or started pullets around 20 weeks. The pullets are raised off-site. I'm pretty sure most hatcheries don't even have feed for the chicks, they ship them out before they need to eat.

My Pet Chicken looks to offer sexed bantam chicks, and since you're close to Sac you could get a small order if you need.

Other than that, I'd haunt the local Craigslist or similar to find the chicks you're looking for.