Just starting out

[Sambro71]

Im starting to add livestock to my mini farm. I have worked with many animals, but not much with chickens. Which dual purpose breed(s) is/are good to start with? And should I get hatchlings or juveniles?

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens Samro71. Hope you will enjoy it as much as we do.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. Juveniles may be a go start, though availability may be an issue Here are some helpful links:

• Great go-to resource - Articles
• How to start a new thread
• http://www.sagehenfarmlodi.com/chooks/chooks.html
  https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/category/chicken-breeds.16/
• Find other BYC members nearby using the links in my signature, below (turn your phone to landscape to see them).

Best wishes

Pork Pie

 

[Perris]

hello @Sambro71 - welcome to BYC
Juveniles are probably easiest to start with, but do try to make sure you get healthy stock!

 

[N F C]

Make yourself at home here, thanks for joining!

 

[AquaDuck]

Welcome!
Chicks are a joy to raise and are easier to tame if that's something you want. But you must be prepared for a cockerel or two, even if you buy sexed babies.
As for breeds I'd advice making a list of criteria important to you (temperament, egg color, plumage color, broodiness etc) and take it from there. This page has loads of chicken breeds with description and pictures.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
PBRs are a good dual purpose breed. Due to the current very high demand of laying birds, you will likely have to get chicks.

 

[Isaac 0]

Hello, and Welcome to BYC! So glad you decided to join!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Welcome to our FUNomenal Flock!
Grab a roost & enjoy your time here!

 

[sourland]

Hello, and welcome to BYC.