Bringing in new birds always stresses me out and I try not to do it. I know some people who seem to buy and sell birds like crazy like their coop has a revolving door. As fun as it is to hatch out chicks, once you initially get your flock started, it is way more fun to breed than to buy. Plus it's a lot safer! I am sooo grateful I can have roosters where I live. Also, Pipdzipd, I honestly don't think I could use any of my ladies as a "canary" lol. I may be a softie, but I wouldn't be cool losing any of them.