Which breeds sell?

[Tcthomps1]

I am expanding my backyard flock into a breeding program intending to sell chicks/ fertile eggs, etc. I am in the west Georgia area. What breeds do you guys think would sell well to get started?

 

[Top Rooster]

Silkies would probably sell, bantams like seramas, game birds would probably too and maybe some Brahmas and Cochins. That’s just what I think would sell but I’m no expert.

 

[varidgerunner]

In my experience, having hatched chicks and raised started birds for a more urban backyard market for several years before scaling back and raising what makes me happy, people want whatever you don't have. Painted silkies and various polish seem to be the hot thing now. Fancy colored orpingtons and wyandottes were big a couple years ago, then there was/is the Ayam Cemani craze. The Brahma videos circulated, and people that had never heard of on had to have one, like a year ago, but now people around here are giving them away on the swap lists. (I was tired of Brahmas ten years ago.) Pick a good useful breed that lays a lot of eggs and is hardy in almost any type of management system, in a color that pleases you, and raise them. Chasing the next fad is almost impossible to get in on the right end of the market. By the time you get your breeding stock ready to produce, the next fad will have hit.

 

[red horse ranch]

The good old standards like Orpington, Rhode Island Red and Barred rocks should always sell. EE's are always popular. Most people who have bought my started pullets just want good egg layers.

 

[Acre4Me]

Ask at your local farm supply store that sell chicks in the spring to see what sells consistently in your area. If there is a hatchery in your general area then see what sell out and has delayed availability. If there is a livestock auction house near you, then try to find out what type/age gets most or best bids. You can also ask on the GA group here on BYC to get the local opinion and experience. Go to forums...to social...to “where am I, where are you” forum and find GA.