Help with new flock in Pensacola, FL

[Liquidfuture]

Hello,

I'm in Pensacola, FL, and I want to start a small backyard chicken flock (about 4 layers). I've done a *lot* of reading and I'm pretty sure that I know what I want. I'm having trouble finding sexed chicks in the area. I'd like to avoid ordering chicks in the mail because of the stress on the chicks and minimum ording quantities. I live downtown and definitely can't have a rooster.

Can anyone recommend a good, humane source for chicks of varying breeds within 100 miles? I'm also looking for organic, or soy/corn free feed, but that's less important if I don't find a source for chicks! Any help and advise is appreciated.

Thanks,

Conor

 

[paddock36]

Do you have any feed stores in your area? Most are getting sexed chicks that they ship in around this time of year. There might be a minimum requirement of six but maybe you can split your purchase with someone else.

Oh sorry I forgot

 

[austinandkara]

Definitely check your local craigslist. Just go to craigslist.com and it should automatically open to your city but if not there are lists of cities on the right side. Under the for sale section, click on "farm & garden." There will be chickens for sale there usually. Also, you can sometimes find adult chickens on there and that way you will know for sure that they are hens.

 

[Liquidfuture]

@paddock26 and @austinandkara - Thank you both for the welcome. Unfortunately, I've checked all of the local feed/agriculture stores in the area (and beyond). Many have chicks, or will soon, but they're all straight run! Also, craigslist has yet to provide any options. Lots of chickens (mostly pullets and hens), but no viable leads for sexed chicks--the single add for sexed chicks had an out of service number.

So far, even the local egg sellers at the farmer's market will only do straight run!

I'd like to avoid pullets and hens if possible. Since these chickens are also going to be pets, I'd like to raise them, as well as know that I'll be getting as much egg laying time from them as possible. Lots of variables...I know!

Is getting chicks in the mail really as cruel, and stressful on the birds as I feel it is?

Thanks all! Please keep the advice coming!

 

[sunny & the 5 egg layers]

How about a TSC (Tractor Supply Company) They have something called chick days. I dont know if you have one in your area but I went on their site and they have a lot in florida. Its worth a shot!

 

[chick-n-momma]

Hi!! I was raised in Pensacola....Warrington area

 

[Liquidfuture]

sunny & the 5 egg layers :

How about a TSC (Tractor Supply Company) They have something called chick days. I dont know if you have one in your area but I went on their site and they have a lot in florida. Its worth a shot!

Yup. TSC was my first stop. They have a whole bunch of chicks, but they're all straight-run. Thanks though!​

 

[Nava]

don't care about the breed right, as long as they are chicks and good egg layers?

by the way

 

[SourRoses]

Hmmm... What about trying to find Breeder lists online and see if one is a close enough drive for you? You might end up paying a bit more that way... But if they have some young or month old chicks, they may be able to find you only pullets (females)... Or they may offer to take back any roos?

 

[Liquidfuture]

Quote:
Hi! I'm from NY originally, but in Pensacola (East Hill) since about 3 weeks before Ivan.


Thanks for your help!