Started Pullets or Chicks?

[Jolly Rancher]

I have a dilemma. I was just about to order my first chicks (Golden Buffs) from Meyer's, when I discovered a local hatchery has 19 week old Golden Buff pullets that have been vaccinated for Marek's, Newcastle and Fowl Pox.

I would enjoy raising chicks, but is it better in the long run to have fully vaccinated chickens? I'm starting a small backyard flock, so I'm not really sure if the vaccinations are necessary.

 

[RJ_Hythloday]

no experience here, but I've read that by raising them they will be more closely attached to you, listen, come when you call etc.

 

[hensdeliverthegoods]

Here's my 2 cents...for what it's worth. My first chickens were started pullets, and it was great fun to start getting eggs in just a few weeks. For the most part my girls are friendly and easy to handle, but a few are flighty.

I feel like that since I'm a beginner, it was easier to start off with the started pullets, especially since it was late winter when we got them. Now I feel I have more knowledge under my belt to move on to chicks in the spring!

 

[debilorrah]

Quote:
We did the same thing, except that we have the pullets outside with the roo and the babies inside with us.