Just realized I have to buy 6 chicks, uh oh. What to do with spares?

[Nambroth]

One thing that concerns me (about disease) is that I don't know who touches the birds at Nature Berry, and I know at TSC they say no one is allowed to. I read in the chicken book new hatched birds usually do not have diseases, but then as they get older and get handled more things can spread? I didn't think about that. Stuff to think about. We had been thinking of getting older chicks, now I am not so sure. I am a huge softy and it's gonna' hurt if any of these chickens die. This is way more complicated than I had imagined!!!

That's a very smart approach. You can always ask them about it. If I were to get started birds there, I'd also personally ask how they deal with returns. That is a bio-seccurity risk if not handled correctly. I think you are approaching this with a lot of thought going into it, which is a great thing!! I found myself way more attached to my birds than I ever anticipated, so I know how you feel.

 

[Peggy O]

I do really tend to overthink things though, lol,

 

[ctibbitts]

Just remember that when you pick out chicks you want the ones that are active and NOT the cute sleepy ones. It might not be taking a nap, it could be a weak bird. I think you'll be a good chicken owner because you are putting a lot of thought in the process. You reap what you sow. Your chicks are your seeds. You can always ask when the chicks arrive and be one of the first to pick out and handle the chicks. You also have a new coop that has never had other birds in it and that alone should ease most of your vaccination fears.

 

[Peggy O]

I think it'll be good. We're really excited.
Putting that coop kit together is gonna' be interesting though. So many parts!!! Ha ha. OY.