Should I buy extra chick(s)?

[Blue_Myst]

I'm planning on getting three chicks this spring, but I was wondering, should I get an extra chick to compensate for gender mix-up (I only want hens) or mortality rate? The problem is, I already have three hens, and I don't know if I have enough room for four new chickens, if they all survive....my coop is only 6' 8' (or 10', can't remember which), and my run is only between 8' by 8' and 10' by 10'. I know the standard 4 sq. ft. rule, but they are usually cooped up for about a month or two in mid-winter because it gets so cold, so I want to make sure they have plenty of room. I'm really at a loss about this, any advice would be much appreciated

 

[Emchick]

Yes, definetly get another chicken. If they all live, sell one, or butcher it.

 

[Teach97]

I am failing to see why you would be concerned on space...a 6x8 coop gives you 48 sq ft divide by 4 that is 12 so you should have plenty of space for 12 birds...get 25 birds and build another coop!

 

[bigredfeather]

FYI - If you ask people on here if you should get more chickens, they're going to tell you yes everytime. lol We're all a bunch of chicken addicts.

 

[conny63malies]

Quote:
order 6-8 standard chicks or 8-10 bantam chicks.youneed more chicks, we are enablers.

 

[silkiechicken]

I'd go ahead and make a full sized order, pick the ones you want to keep, and sell the rest! Might break even or if you are paying for a heat pack plus shipping with only three where even giving them away might be the same cost on your end.

 

[marytoast]

Yep! In July I bought 3..........welll now I have 12. Go ahead and get a whole bunch and let them grow up together.

 

[Blue_Myst]

Ok, I suppose I do worry a bit too much about having enough space...

Thanks for all the input! More chickens it is!

FYI - If you ask people on here if you should get more chickens, they're going to tell you yes everytime. lol We're all a bunch of chicken addicts.

Yes, ever since I found this forum I've had a huge urge to buy more chickens.....I think I've caught the bug

 

[Teach97]

addiction not a bug...very different things...bigs can be cured with medicine...addictions require more...lots more...like get an incubator

 

[farmergal]

the bit about the bator is TOO true....