New to chickens

[allison lilly]

We want to start raising chickens so I have a lot of questions. First let me tell you a little about us. We live in southern WV so because the weather during summer and winter is so unpredictable I know I want a very hardy bird. With that being said when is the best time to purchase chickens and how hold should they be? Knowing when will help us plan for the coop. Next is a rooster necessary for the hens? From what I've read here so far I know not to expect instant results due to their stress level during moving and such. I would like any feed back anyone had to offer. Thank you in advance!

 

[tj74roberts]

Welcome, all the way from California. Congrats on catching the chicken bug. Are you wanting to start with day old chicks or started pullets?

 

[allison lilly]

Welcome, all the way from California. Congrats on catching the chicken bug. Are you wanting to start with day old chicks or started pullets?

I think a started pullet would be best! See we are trying to become more self sustainable. I've started doing most of my own baking and eggs are a big part of that so they would be for our own regular consumption but also for my baking needs. We have a small garden every year but we will be expanding that this year.

 

[tj74roberts]

I think a started pullet would be best! See we are trying to become more self sustainable. I've started doing most of my own baking and eggs are a big part of that so they would be for our own regular consumption but also for my baking needs. We have a small garden every year but we will be expanding that this year.

You just want to make sure that your ready when the good weather comes. Any idea on what breed(s) you are looking for?

 

[familyfarm1]

Hello

and Welcome to BYC!
So glad you joined! Check out the learning center for great information

or ask questions and will try to answer them!!
Good luck with your new flock!!

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

You do not need a rooster in order for hens to lay eggs. Roosters are only required for egg fertilization. The best breeds for you, since you are in need of hardy ones, include buff orpingtons, black australorps, wyandotte, barred rocks, sussex and sex links. All of these breeds are generally friendly, great layers, good foragers and very cold hardy.

Do you want friendly birds? If so you should buy them as chicks. Started birds aka pullets and cockerels are usually skittish and hard to tame whereas chicks are very easy.


Also, if you are wanting eggs in the same year you buy your baby chicks, then you need to get them in spring or even late winter. This is because pullets take about 4-7 months to start laying and need warmth and light in order to do so. So let's say you buy your chicks in March; they will probably start laying in August or September. That all depends on breed too.

Good luck and welcome to our flock!

 

[Wyandottes7]

With that being said when is the best time to purchase chickens and how hold should they be? It is usually best to purchase chicks in the spring. I suggest purchasing them before April- that way, they should be laying by fall and winter.
Next is a rooster necessary for the hens? A rooster is only neccesary if you want fertile eggs. Hens are often happier without a rooster, and you don't need a rooster to make them lay. But, roosters are still fun to have around. Some of mine are more entertaining than the hens, and they are certainly pretty!

If you have any other questions, just ask! We're all here to help in any way we can.

 

[Book Em Danno25]

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to the flock. A rooster is not necessary unless you want fertile eggs. Otherwise a hen will continue to lay without one. Generally the hens are less stressed with NO rooster around.