Newbie to Chickens in MA - looking for local advice

[TeddyBearSilkie]

It looks as though my dream of having chickens is finally coming to fruition. I am looking at a coop tomorrow, which I am sure I will purchase. I have a couple of modifications to do and a few purchases to make and then I'll be ready to find my flock. Thanks to this site I have found answers to so many of my questions. Perhaps a few locals in Massachusetts, specifically northeast MA can help me with locating a few items. Where can I purchase river sand? Cheapest place to buy pine shavings? I'm having trouble locating Silkie hens/pullets. Is there anyone out there with some Silkies? I was hoping to not get straight run chicks, as I was only interested in hens (at least for now), but it seems this is how most people sell them.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, freemebean, and

! Pleased you joined us! You might be able to chat with some locals in the MA thread of the link below. Good luck to you!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/26/where-am-i-where-are-you

 

[TeddyBearSilkie]

Thanks, will do

 

[drumstick diva]

Once you have 20 posts you can participate in the buy/sell/trade forums. Silkies are often advertised there. Sellers prefer to sell In pairs or trios- a rooster with one or two hens.

Less often you can find a pair of pullets. My friend has purchased silkie pullets twice from Sundown Waterfowl (BYC member) and they are gorgeous birds even tho not show quality. Chelsea sells usually in fall when she has determined which to keep or offer for show, she then offers the breeder or pet quality. They are beautiful, clean and healthy - she really cares about her stock.

Her advertising at that time gives a critique and several pictures of each bird. They are usually 4 mos. and older, when she can determine the sex.

 

[TeddyBearSilkie]

Thanks for all the info drumstick diva. I was wondering why I couldn't post in the buy/sell/trade forums. I'm unsure about getting a rooster so I'm not sure if the buy/sell/trade forums might be for me. I live out in suburbia with at least a half acre in between houses, but the idea of a rooster makes me nervous.

Do you know where Sundown Waterfowl is located? Judging from here site she seems like a reputable breeder. I'll have to keep an eye out for any available chickens. Thanks.

 

[drumstick diva]

Not certain but I think it was NY. If I can locate the info, I will send you a private message.

 

[TeddyBearSilkie]

Ok, thanks