The Day I Bought Chickens (and What Went Wrong)
When I decided to buy chickens for the first time, I was bursting with excitement. Two dozen tiny Rhode Island Red chicks arrived at the post office, their collective peeping echoing through the building and driving the staff crazy. By the time they called to insist I pick them up, I was already envisioning a backyard full of happy hens.
But within a week, a few chicks didn’t make it. My enthusiasm was real, but my preparation? Not so much.
If you’re thinking about buying chickens, let me save you from the mistakes I made. Whether you’re in it for the eggs, meat, companionship, or a healthy lifestyle, here’s how to set yourself up for success—step by step.
Step 1: Choose the Right Breed
Not all chickens are created equal. Some are egg-laying machines, others are better for meat, and some are just plain adorable (looking at you, Silkies).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Egg Layers: Rhode Island Reds, Leghorns, and Plymouth Rocks are examples of dependable and beginner-friendly breeds.
- Dual-Purpose Breeds: Buff Orpingtons and Wyandottes offer a balance between eggs and meat.
- Ornamental Breeds: Silkies and Polish chickens are ideal if you want quirky, lovable pets.
Coop’s Pro Tip: Cold winters in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? Stick with hardy breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons or Plymouth Rocks. They can handle the chill better than you can!
Step 2: Think About Space
Chickens may be small, but they need room to roam. The general rule is:
- 4 square feet per chicken inside the coop.
- 10 square feet per chicken in the run.
Overcrowding can lead to stress, illness, and pecking (literally). If you’re short on space, consider fewer chickens or smaller breeds.
Step 3: Decide Where to Buy Chickens
When it comes to buying chickens, you have a few options:
- Local Hatcheries: These are great for getting healthy, vaccinated chicks.
- Facebook Groups and Craigslist: Check for local sellers but always visit the location to ensure birds are healthy.
- Online Hatcheries: Many sites ship chicks directly to your door—or, more accurately, to your post office. Be ready for a phone call because their peeping will drive the staff nuts!
Quick Note: Avoid sellers who don’t let you see the living conditions of their birds. Healthy chickens come from clean, well-managed environments.
Step 4: Address Common Fears
It’s natural to have concerns before buying chickens. Here’s how to tackle the big ones:
- Fear of Disease: Buy from reputable sources, and quarantine new chickens for a few weeks before introducing them to your flock.
- Predator Worries: Invest in a secure coop and run. Hardware cloth is your best friend—it’s sturdier than chicken wire.
- Time Commitment: Daily care is a must, but chickens are low-maintenance compared to most pets. Once you establish a routine, it’s a breeze.
Step 5: Prepare Emotionally
Raising chickens is rewarding, but it’s a commitment. They can live up to 10 years, and you’ll need to care for them throughout all seasons. But trust me, there’s nothing like gathering fresh eggs on a crisp morning or watching your flock’s quirky antics.
Start Smart with the Ultimate Chicken Breed Selector Tool
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Choosing the right breed is one of the trickiest parts of starting a flock, which is why we created the Ultimate Chicken Breed Selector Tool.
Answer a few simple questions, and it’ll help match you with the breeds that suit your needs, climate, and space. With 90 chicken breeds whether you want egg-layers, healthy meat, hardy winter birds, or feathered friends with flair, this tool has you covered. Find out what chickens lay those beautiful blue eggs!
Buying chickens is an exciting step toward a more sustainable and happier lifestyle. With a bit of planning, you can avoid beginner mistakes (like mine) and build a happy, healthy flock. Ready to get started? Don’t wait—unlock your perfect flock today! Sign up for the Ultimate Chicken Breed Selector Tool and turn your chicken-keeping dreams into reality!