Its January when do we start ordering chicks??

[thetajmahalcoop]

I have about 10 guineas, guess not keets anymore technically they are hmmmm 7-8 months old now? 1 Lavender and the rest are Pearl (?) I think. I've never had guineas before and love them! They are great watchdogs along with my Tom turkey and alert me to crows in the front yard or a cat slinking around the driveway. I've never hatched a thing, but have some broody hens this year, one of which I know had hatched some chicks right before I bought her (she came with the 3 chicks too and raised them, so cool!) so I am hoping to set some eggs under the broodies and do it the old fashioned way.... we shall see. Very very sad you are not a NY'er!

 

[Haazegirl]

Last year was our first year with chickens, and we almost were too late to get the breeds we decided on. So when I had to go to the grain elevator (where I ordered from) to pay a bill I decided to order. The guy called in and they said how about next week!! Last year they came in April, so I hesitated and they suggested January 27th. I need to talk this over with my husband and see if it's normal to get chicks in January!! From what I've read on here it's not a big issue but most go for March.
Last year we ordered 15 each of Dominiques, and New Hampshire Reds. This year I added 15 Easter Eggers, but my husband wanted me to get 60! That means I have to make another brooder box or he has to get in the barn and make a safe area for them. Maybe we could put our current chickens in the chicken tractor, and make a brooding area for the new guys.... Any advice? How long before they can go outside? What am I doing!!

PS, now I am going to look at ideal and if it's as good as some say I might cancel my order!! Shhhh.....