How old are store-bought chicks?

[gemd]

I just purchased some orpington a and araucania from Walden Farms And Ranch but the chicks were from Ohio (mount....something or another hatchery). The store posts delivery/first day of sale which was today (4/8) and I got a box that said date of mailing 4/6 but I'm not sure if it was their box. Seem like they may still have egg teeth but they already know how to eat an drinks I am guestimating they were born 4/5? The store hasn't a clue.

 

[Cecisflock]

yes born 4/5 or 4/6

 

[Ridgerunner]

I am guestimating they were born 4/5?

Probably right if they just got in today. The Postal Department rules are that they have to be shipped within 24 hours of hatch and regular scheduled delivery has to be within 48 hours of shipping. A former postmaster recently posted that information.

So as long as there were no unusual delays in shipping, they were probably hatched on the 5th, shipped early on the 6th, and arrived on the 8th. It's also possible they were hatched on the 6th and arrived in less than 48 hours but with that date on the box it's most likely the 5th.

Sometimes it tales the feed store a few days to sell them so they can be older when you buy them.