Which is better? Picking your own Chicks or ordering them from a hatchery?

[ForeverAvian]

Do some research into what breed(s) you want. Then find a breeder and order chicks. Many breeders will ship chicks. Its really that easy. What breed(s) are you thinking of getting?

I've been doing a lot of research.

The breeds I'm looking to get (in the near future) are:
Australorp
Delaware
Rhode Island
Red Star (sex link)

If the Delaware and Star are not available, then these are some substitutes:
Black Maran
Speckled Sussex
Buff Brahma

 

[SilkieBantams]

I would have to say from my view of picking my own chicks is a fun learning experience as you get to pick your own chicks that are of a chosen unique color. Hatcheries often have flawless genetics in their birds.

 

[BlazeJester]

*chokes on coffee*

"Flawless" is in the eye of the beholder. If you want egg laying machines, they're flawless. They also die of egg laying machine ailments such as yolk peritonitis (massive infection of the reproductive tract), egg binding and internal laying.

You can't take 99% of hatchery birds to any significant show and expect to win.

As for picking chicks, it's fun. And you sometimes end up with roosters. Lots of roosters. Have a plan for the roosters.

I would have to say from my view of picking my own chicks is a fun learning experience as you get to pick your own chicks that are of a chosen unique color. Hatcheries often have flawless genetics in their birds.

 

[ForeverAvian]

*chokes on coffee*

"Flawless" is in the eye of the beholder. If you want egg laying machines, they're flawless. They also die of egg laying machine ailments such as yolk peritonitis (massive infection of the reproductive tract), egg binding and internal laying.

You can't take 99% of hatchery birds to any significant show and expect to win.

As for picking chicks, it's fun. And you sometimes end up with roosters. Lots of roosters. Have a plan for the roosters.

Yeah, I just want egg layers and I really want to avoid picking a rooster on accident... Roosters are not allowed in my area. I wouldn't have the heart to eat it (or kill it)... and if I couldn't find someone to give them too, I don't know what I would do with them. ><

 

[Nikkipar]

FYI your local feed store may take roosters for free and try to rehome them for you. Mine will.... Ask just in case

 

[ForeverAvian]

FYI your local feed store may take roosters for free and try to rehome them for you. Mine will.... Ask just in case

Oh cool! I didn't know that, I'll be sure to find that info out before I buy my chicks.