I don't want/need 25 chicks... any sources?

[itsmatt]

Hello,

I've got a small farm in (increasing less rural) Virginia. I'm interested in raising a few hens for eggs, bug control and mostly for fun/educational experience for the kids. The local Tractor Supply used to sell chicks but evidently due to bird flu, you have to special order them now. Problem is that they have a minimum order of 25 chicks. I'd really rather have 3 or 4, 5 at most since we don't need a ton of eggs every week. It seems like the online hatcheries I've visited also have a 25 chick minimum.

Does anyone happen to know if there is a source for chicks where I might buy 3-5 chicks? I'm midway between Richmond, Virginia and Washington D.C.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[marko15]

I don't know if this will be a solution, but if you know of a friend or someone that lives in the same area as you that orders meat birds to raise or such, you could possibly ask them to order you a few of the chicks you are looking for when they order their meat birds (I would probably offer to help with the shipping cost + the cost of the 3 or 4 chicks)

 

[hinkjc]

You could try posting in BST to see if anyone else in your area would be interested in going in on an order or post looking for chicks in your location. There are several VA folks surfing the boards...maybe someone could help you out with a small hatch.

Jody

 

[jimnjay]

Also look in the phone book, if there are any other feed stores around that are not a chain store, many of those still get in chicks. Small independent stores still get Easter Chicks, its good business. Sell chicks for a $1.00 and sell feed for $ 10.00 all year long.

 

[cockadoodlemom]

If you dont have success with the other ideas then try Ideal Poultry. They have a min $25 order not quantity. Good Luck and hope you find what your looking for.

 

[pipermark]

I had the same problem, but I took a chance and ordered 30 chicks. I had no problems selling the "started" birds in my area for $10.00 a piece. Out of 30 I wil end up with about 7. I am down to 13 and I will begin my "who is the best layer" challange next week. The winning 6 or 7 stay, the reamaing 6 or 7 will go.

 

[loveladyp]

If you want to wait until May, Iam getting 30 peeps, did not really want 30 but could not decide which ones not to get.

I live in Loudoun County, VA

 

[SanClementeChick]

a web site called mypetchicken.com will send as few as three chicks. Good Luck!