.........also how much are they asking for chicks and when is the best time to order chicks .?Tammy
At the Kelso store, yesterday, they were $2.49 - $2.99 a chick. They are selling chicks right now. They carry them twice a year; Spring/Fall. I would guess, the best time of year is personal preference.
If Spring: Chicks (depending on breed) would mature to egg laying between July and September. However, egg production is linked to light so when the days shorten, the production goes down unless you supplement them with artificial light to keep light to 13 hours a day (for best egg production).
If Fall: Chicks (depending on Breed) would mature to egg laying between January to March. This is when the days are lengthening and so you will have the best egg production during the summer when there is so much light and would not need to give them artificial light (and electricity to your coop) for best egg production.
There are different thoughts to adding artificial light (in winter) to keep egg production up. Some feel it drains the birds and shortens their egg laying life span. The yellow yoke, of the egg, gets it color by leaching it from the hen. You will notice the longer she is laying the whiter her pigment gets. To be a "natural" method for the hens is to allow them to slow egg production, in winter, so they can back their color.
I am not advocating either method, just letting you know about them. I know which method I prescribe to but do not wish to start a debate on it.
I hope this helps with your question.
Sheila
