Six chick minimum in Maine

[MaineChickenRun]

So our chicken swap had an upset man trying to sell chicks in small numbers.

He was told the law was at least 6. Then one member ask why six was the magic number. Anyone know why?

 

[Fred's Hens]

No idea why Maine specifically adopted the law, but it is fairly common it would appear.

The thought process likely includes the hope that 6 would provide a real flock. Individual chicks simply don't do well, as they are a flock animal. It is likely hoped that a 6 chick minimum would help prevent impulse buying of "oh, arent' those chicks so cute" buying. Too many ducklings and chicks get purchased as if they were fashion accessories to Spring instead of the live animals that will need care that they truly are.

 

[Mtn Laurel]

It's that way in Virginia, too, although I'm not sure it extends to private sales. If you get your chicks at the feed store, it's a 6-chick minimum. I think Fred's Hens hit the nail on the head as to why there is such a rule. However, you can purchase in smaller quantities privately via Craigslist and the like.

If the swap was sponsored by or held at a feed store, that might be why they wanted to comply with the 6-chick rule.