Hatcheries will often send an extra chick or two (You can tell them ahead of time if you don't want them to)with a regular sized order, but with such a small order, (Usually under ten) they don't usually send extras, at least not in my experience.Hello!
I’m starting my first backyard flock! We live on a fairly small lot in a suburban area. Our city just changed the ordinance from max 3 hens to 1 per 1000 square feet of lot space, so I can have up to 6.
I originally ordered 1 red Orpington, 1 buff Orpington, and 1 lavender Orpington from Mt Healthy in February. I had to go out to June 21 to get all these hens, but I’m okay with that. Since it’s such a small flock, I want to be picky. Last week, I added an Easter Egger.
I’m tempted to add another Easter egger, but I’m worried chicken math is getting to me
I decided 3 was too small in case one didn’t make it, or got sick later or ended up a too, I’d only be left with 2. But now I’m worried about my one Easter egger being lonely. And what if it’s a rare one that doesn’t lay colored eggs?
It seems from reviews, Mt Healthy usually throws an extra chick in. If I knew 100 percent it would be an extra Easter Egger, I’d hold off.
Has anyone ever not gotten an extra chick from Mt Healthy or any other Hatchery? Is there any way to influence which extra they send? I’m thinking if they do send an extra, it will probably be an Easter Egger or Buff Orpington because those are the most basic ones I ordered.
I’m not sure I want to max it out at 6. We do live in close quarters with neighbors and I’m so new to this. But what’s one more?
I feel like 5 is awkward because if we only get 4, I could always get a pair next year, but can’t really do that with 5.
