QUESTION FROM ANOTHER NEWBIE!

[4hLuvers]

Hi everyone!
Well, the coop/run is almost complete and its time to start thinking about where to get our chickens. We are planning to go to a few shows to look at some bantam hens and have a few questions:
1. Can we buy hens at shows?
2. Around how much do breeded bantams cost at shows?
3. Would it be better to wait until spring for chicks?

Any other advice would be helpful as well.

THANKS!

 

[scrappyroo]

If you can afford to feed them, don't wait until spring. You'll pay twice as much for them in the spring.

 

[mikarod]

1. Yes you can. Look and see if there is a "sales" area. If not, find a bird that you like, write down the number or name and try to find out who the exhibitor number belongs to then track down that person. (birds from coops generally cost more)

2. Just purchase a pair of birds. That way you know your female will be bred. Some breeders say that their birds have been in the breeding pen, when they've only been there for a few minutes and have NOT been bred.

3. Depending on the quality of birds you want, you can wait until spring to order chicks from a hatchery.