Which chicks should I buy today?

[HBuehler]

You did mean 4 of each didn't you

I mean with the price of gas,time to get to the feed store,gas back home you need to make it worth the trip

Our feed stores sell a min. of 6 at a time.
My RIR think they are people and so do my sex links-oh the EE's Delawares and Rocks do too..so I stick with the 4 of each plan.
See the problem is they are addicting so why waste time teasing yourself just jump in

Nothing wrong with hatchery birds for fun eggs and family pets we have some and they are dear pets here.We also have our Heritage birds there is a place for all.

 

[beckychick]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. I was only supposed to get one (husband said) but I already knew I was going to get two. We already have two chickens and two more on the way so, I knew it would be irresponsible of me to get more.

I did get the Americauna and a Sex Link. Even if they're not pure breeds I do like them.

 

[CHIC]

People get so caught up in "pure" and downing the hatcheries. I think it's obvious that you are not looking to show birds. Just because they are not the perfect example for their breed does not make them not "pure". As long as you love your birds don't worry what everyone says about the hatcheries- PLEASE.

 

[PortageGirl]

Quote:
It's not all about "pure" CHICK, it's about keeping a breed true to the breed standard. As I said in my post, most hatchery chicks are reasonable examples of the breeds, but perhaps not as true to type as they could be. They make compromises for expediency’s sake, and really, a determined breeder must cull the poor examples quite mercilessly to keep their flock at its best. This is no way for a hatchery to run its business, and the hatchery birds all provide eggs or meat to their owner’s just fine.

Exactly what the truly exacting breeders do with their culls depends on their resources and on whether they are breeding for show birds only, or if they have two strains going, one for total type, another for more utilitarian birds.

Chickens don’t trace bloodlines like many other animals’ breeders do. A breed can have outcrosses mixed in, as long as they complement and enhance the progeny so they stay true to the breed standards. There’s actually no way to tell, that’s why a breeders reputation is so important.

 

[carriehelene]

To make Potagegirls case in point, I ordered 6 hens from a hatchery last spring, including a beautiful golden Laced Wyandott. She has a sweet personality, her feathers are stunning, but has a single comb. While she suits the purpose she was purchased for (pet/egg-layer) I will not be able to breed her to either sell the eggs or enter in a show, because she doesn't fit breed standards. It all depends on what you are looking to raise your birds for. Hatchery stock is great if you are looking for pet chickens, but if you are looking for anything else, go with a breeder.