New to this- what age should I start with??

[aem2012]

I just moved out to the country and there happened to be a vacant chicken coop in the backyard!! There's only one thing to do...I've been doing my reading but I'm just not sure what age chicks I should get. It's staying about 90'-75' right now and the coop is probably a few degrees warmer. I don't think I'm home enough to hatch chicks (I work at a daycare and have seen what happens when chicks get left in too high of heat . ) I'm only looking to get 3-5 hens and I'm leaning toward Easter Eggers and/or guineas. I've read that a lot of people start with chicks that are four weeks old. I just want to make sure I'm not missing out on bonding time, getting them used to handling, or general chicken raising fun. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

[Wallygator]

For me my favorite part is raising but if you don't hand raise them sometimes they won't ever be as friendly as they can be. :/

 

[PNWGirl]

I enjoy the raising part. I got one at three days old and two at one week old. I have found that the one that was three days old is bonding to me faster than the older two.

If you start off with young, like I did, you can brood them in your home and then not worry about the coop right now (I am doing that). By the time they are ready for the coop, your temps should have started to drop.

Craig's List is a good place to p/u local chicks, if your feed store is not carrying anymore (some only carry in the Spring).

Sheila

 

[aem2012]

It turns out, my landlord had some extra RIR that he's looking to sell. He hatched them this spring. I was up today to see them- they are beautiful! Thanks for the replies. I thought it over and figured I would start with older chickens and then next spring when I have more experience I'll start with some chicks of my own.

 

[Melabella]

Good luck with your new red heads!