When to buy your chicks

[honeybeez1994]

Hello, my name is randy and i have been interested in raising chickens but i was woundering what the latest time i could buy the chicks. Thanks

 

[rebelcowboysnb]

As far as I know all the hatcherys sell an ship year round. Many people frown on buying in the cold months because the chance of something happening to them goes up.

 

[easttxchick]

Hi Randy and

from Texas.

I just got some chicks from Cackle Hatchery and My Pet Chicken and they said they stopped shipping in September I believe(due to winter coming on). Hard enough to keep from baking them in this Texas heat much less protecting them from cold in winter!

 

[rachelbinnc]

Hi Randy,

I just bought a batch from My Pet Chicken to ship August 31. I noticed that they had a few ship dates in September, but some breeds are already out of stock. I live in North Carolina, so I'm not too worried about harsh weather until late December, early January. I've also read that chickens tend to be much more cold tolerant than most beginners (like me!) would ever think. I would say go for it. Good luck!

Rachel

 

[gritsar]

IMO, springtime is the right time for chicks.
If the chicks were ordered say in September, they'd only be eight weeks old come November and I'd have to take extra precautions with them because of cold weather.
By ordering in the spring, they are of a good size by the time cold weather sets in and no extra precautions are needed.

 

[kipper]

I am no expert, but I would go by the climate where you live. If you live in Phoenix, fall or winter might be best, if you live in Fargo late spring might be best. You might consider asking others in your area when to buy, or ask a feed store in YOUR area when they carry chicks (even if you plan to mail order). Feed stores don't want them dying on them or unhappy customers, so they will likely carry them at the optimum time.

Good luck but beware, chickens are addictive!