New here and would love some ideas

[kristip]

Hello from WI!

Finally talked my husband into letting me get some chickens. Taking it slow so as not to get him too freaked out about situation. I love the idea of sustainability and chickens support that! We also have 4 year old twins that I think would love the process. Going to see about buying or building a coop for 5-8 birds.
Is it a good idea to get pullets that are laying ( say 5-6 month olds) now as I see them on criagslist all the time and then get some chicks in the spring or get them all the same age?
Part of me wants to start the process and start getting those eggs but it is so exciting to get the babies!
I am also working on finding a processor in my area to help with that part in the process.

Thanks

 

[SummerChick]

Hi kristip

Welcome to BYC!!!

I started with laying hens back in February. I first got 5 red stars then added 3 buff orpingtons and 3 EE's and adding them to the first 5 was not an easy process because of the pecking order but after a couple of weeks things worked out, then i got 3 more EE's! The stress of them all getting along came about again! But after another couple weeks things were fine. I think chicks would be fun to raise but i went straight into the laying hens and got attached to the hens right away. They all come running to me anytime i go out to visit with them, they know who has the goodies!

I believe you will enjoy raising chickens.

 

[wekiva bird]

 

[tobin123]

from Indiana

 

[MCCmomof3]

We did the 1 day chick thing. After talking to a couple of people in our neighborhood that bought 2 month old pullets I think the 1-day chick route was the best for our family. My kids got to go to the feed store and pick out their chicks. The chicks were handled, held, and loved on a daily basis. Consequently, they are very docile and easy to hold and handle as 3 month old pullets. My daughters friend who got their chickens at 8 weeks old will NOT let anyone handle them easily especially children. I have had many people comment on how easy my chickies are to hold and how calm they are.

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

from Tucson, AZ. Getting chicks is really fun, especially for the kids. They also get to see the whole progression. Starting out I try to make sure they are all about the same age whether you get young ones or older pullets, that will reduce a bit of friction among your birds. I would also try to get at least two of each breed you get. Good luck!