Newbie - Chick Die-off? Can you add just one?

[fatcatx]

We are about to acquire our first chickens. We live in suburbia so we'll only be allowed 4. At first I was going to get two now and add two more within a few years after we get some experience and to staggger the laying capacity. But then I became concerned whether both our chicks would live. If I am a well-informed new "farmer" will both my chicks likely live? I do not want one poor lonely chicken. So my second plan was to get three now and add one more in the future. Would there be issues raising/adding just one into this little flock in the future? Should I go with Plan A (2/2) or Plan B (3/1)?

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, fatcatx, and

! Happy to have you here! I think either Plan A or Plan is workable. I like Plan A better - if you are well informed there is really no reason both chicks won't live. And if one does die you are faced with the same problem (that really isn't too much of a problem) of Plan B - adding a chick. Just my opinion. Good luck to you!!

 

[drumstick diva]

I would get all four at once so they would grow up together that way you have your limit. If you lose one or two, you may find you are happy with a smaller amount after all.

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

I agree with redsox

 

[fatcatx]

Thank you so much for the opinions! In my nervous newbie-ness, I forgot to start with HELLO! I am posting from the Sacramento are of California so chick fever has been in the air. In another week or two our nights should remain above 50 degrees.

 

[Mitchell Farm]

Hello from Illinois! I would suggest you follow drumstick divas advice and get all four at once. If you lose one or two you still have at least 2 or 3 remaiming. Sometimes wben you put a new hen in with an established flock they will mercilessly pick on the newcomer. Best of luck anx have fun with them. They are a blast just to watch!

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!

Glad to have you aboard!!

 

[fatcatx]

I will definitely be chekcing out the gardeing thread as that will be another quandry. Our veg garden is fenced off to keep the dog out. Hopefullt the fence is high enough to chicken-proof! The flower area is another matter. It is sure to be a learning experience.

 

[liz9910]

come say hello in the Northern California thread

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/25/california-northern