Started Pullet Prices.

[mchandler]

So I'm new to this whole chicken thing and have been doing a lot of research. I'm getting close to the point where I am ready to buy and have been researching prices. I am interested in White Leghorns and Red Stars for their excellent egg production abilities and that way I can get some brown and white eggs. I wanted to purchase ones that are almost ready to lay, and have been looking at Murry and McMurry. The prices are good but shipping is crazy! about $108 for 8 birds but shipping was $165! Wowzers! Anyone have any hits or good places to get some reasonable prices, or is this what I am in for. Since I was looking for these types of birds I feel like I am narrowing my options?

Thanks,
Matt

 

[Mystic Farms]

Check the chickenstock page on here for swaps in your area, you will usually find your best options/prices there you can also try your local craigslist!! $12-15 for 4-6 mos is the norm in my area, ne fl but each area is different. I know I've read on here of folks having a hard time getting $5 each in some places.

 

[schellie69]

Check the local paper CL and feed store boards, I got pullets for $6 a piece. Good luck you might have to look for while since you have breeds picked out I just got what the farmer had.

 

[hennyannie]

I got some redstar local for 6$. A friend and I got 35, but they didnt charge that much more for small orders.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Agreed. Don't like started pullets with beaks cut, which most hatcheries do!

I sell started pullets, and I am not alone. Many folks do. Check Craigslist, and check here, under sales. Send me a PM if you're close to Northern Michigan.

 

[mchandler]

So i forgot to mention that I have been looking on craigslist and haven't found anything. ( I'm about 45 mins north of Blatimore, MD). The only thing I did find is Moyers Hatchery ( a 2 hour drive), but their started pullets have their beaks trimmed!! Why is this done? Prevent pecking each other? I'm guessing McMurry does the same thing. Maybe I should just try to find a more mainstream RIR. I did search the lancaster PA craigslist and found some started leghorns from a farmer. Maybe I'm too picky to get what I want.

 

[WestKnollAmy]

We have a state agricultural paper that is loaded with started pullets and any other farm related stuff that comes out every 2 weeks. Maybe your state has one like that or neighboring states, even.

 

[Cindy in PA]

Quote:
You are right that Moyer clips beaks like most (if not all) hatcheries that sell point of lay pullets. I did have their red sexlinks a few years ago and they were very good birds. I had eggs a week after I picked them up. Except for the beaks, they are a great place to buy started birds.