Why is it......

[M To The Maxx]

always the best to buy chicks in the spring?

 

[faykokoWV]

hmmm, well, I would guess it has to do with the weather? Cool, but warming up so by the time you're done brooding them they are able to go right outside with no temperature worries?

Also, I think its natural for birds to be more productive egg layers in the spring.

I don't know.

I hate that they cost more around Easter just because people are buying dyed ones that they will probably kill from improper care.

 

[RendonRoo]

I got mine early in the year so they would start laying before winter. They sometimes(Depending on breeds) don't lay as much in the winter and i didn't want to feed them the extra months before i got eggies.

 

[CelticOaksFarm]

I think this depends on where you live too. Being in FL, and having very mild winters and gardening year round it isnt as much of an issue as it is up north.

 

[crooked stripe]

I have heard that rule. I don't believe in it. I have had broodies hatch out clutches of eggs as late as November with no problems. I think it is just a preference. Up north you have to be more vigilant on keeping them warm. I have bought day olds all through out the year. The hatcheries hatch weekly so there is a market for them. I have a bunch coming 9/22 and am planning on having more eggs being laid starting in the spring. That way I might get a broody for new chicks next fall. I just can't stop my income because of the cold.

 

[Soccer Mom]

I actually have the best results with my fall babies. I'm in Texas so winters are comparatively mild. I find it easier to simply warm young birds through our brief nasty spells than to nurse young chicks through a brutal summer. By the time days lengthen in the spring, my chicks will all be six and seven months along, just right for laying.