We just placed our first order for baby chicks. We have bought them from local feed stores before but not a hatchery. I'm so excited, we have everything ready but our order wont be ready untill the end of April. We ordered dark cornish manily for meat and a few pets. Houdans and Silver laced Cochins to see how we like them. Looks like the Houdans are holding up the order so I hope it is worth the wait. I've read how to care for chicks upon arrival but any words of wisdom would be appreciated.
Congratulations!! Just follow the directions from the hatchery and you'll be fine. Get ready to have a lot of anxiety and FUN! Take lots of pictures. If you have any questions just ask the peeps on BYC The only thing that is different (than buying the chicks at the feed store) is the shipment and then the process of getting them to drink (first) and eat (second). Dip their beaks. I find it best to dip the beak of each chick when I put it in the brooder. Then I am sure that I didn't forget anyone. Have heat for the ones in the box as well as over the brooder. You'll know they are happy when they quiet down.
