which is cheaper???Which route would you go??

[eastbaychicks]

I vote for a negotiation.... a little of both. I have to say that I like the tiered effort from the beginning.

A few babies, a few at 10 weeks and a few about to lay. It's kept me happy.

 

[evonne]

the other thing to think about that i didn't see mentioned... along with having to feed them until they lay, are you also going to have to buy eggs to use in your kitchen while you're waiting for these to be old enough?? or do you already have layers for your kitchen and this is an investment for eggs to sell?

 

[Big C]

We have a mix of both.

Depending on what your using your flock(s) for is what you should consider.

We sell eggs as a business. Our started pullet flock gave us the opportunity to quickly sell, then mix in with our chick raised flock(s) production.

As far as cost:
chick raised vs started pullets for us its about the same at peak production. But, started pullets life span is shorter than chick raised. Also your started pullets will never go broody so you will always have to purchase more to refresh your flock egg production. With chick raised (depending on breed) you will be able to refresh you flock internally, This will decrease your cost ratio vs production.

Our ratio:
85% chick raised
15% started pullets

 

[adorable]

thanks everyone. I did start off with ready to lay. But you can only get the one breed.I think from here on in. I will raise from baby chicks. I do have 60 layers now. SO lots of eggs. I think i would like to try different breeds. I read that the barred rock is the worse for egg layers. Is that true?

 

[eastbaychicks]

I have a barred rock that's been laying pretty darn near an egg a day since August. She's slowing down with the change in the daylight hours like the other birds. But I have to say the shape of their eggs aren't my fav. They are a skinny oval shape and seem to have less egg white and the yolk are smaller compared to my rhode island red hens. I just love the shape and size and color of the RIR's eggs. There is no taste difference at all. I think the RIR's eat more, but that is not a scientific study.

Good luck and 60 that's so cool!