![\"supply-guide\"](\"https:\/\/img.hobbyfarms.com\/supply-guide-2-300x197.jpg\")
Breed Selection<\/span><\/h2>\nBreed consideration is an essential part of knowing how to add new chickens to your flock. We raise chickens for many different reasons, including meat and eggs (dual purpose), pest control, and companionship. Considering Golden Comets over White Leghorns makes sense if you\u2019re looking for an excellent egg layer with a friendly disposition. But, if a high feed-to-egg ratio is essential, the leghorn might be the better option. For many poultry enthusiasts, egg color also significantly influences what breed(s) to choose. If you want chocolate brown eggs<\/a>, get a Marans. Green or blue eggs, try an Easter Egger. Once you\u2019ve selected what breed(s) to add, it\u2019s time to see if they fit your flock well. Do you have a bully in your flock? If yes, bringing home a shy or docile breed that is easily bullied, such as an Eater Eggers or Salmon Faverolles, isn\u2019t the best option. Or if you have a flock of Polish and Silkies, adding some Rhode Island Reds to the mix could end in disaster. Do your research, and get breeds that work well with each other.<\/p>\nFeed Costs<\/span><\/h2>\nChickens may only eat a little feed per bird, but adding more chickens to the flock will increase the feed consumption. If you\u2019re raising chickens for profit, the more birds you have, the more profit you\u2019ll make. However, this could pose a concern for the backyard chicken-keeper raising chickens simply for enjoyment.<\/p>\n
The cost of your monthly feed bill will depend on the number of birds in the flock, the feed brand and whether you feed organic feed. Generally, a chicken should eat about half a cup of feed daily \u2014varying on breed, access to green pastures and even the time of year, as chickens tend to eat less in summer and more in winter. A flock of 10 chickens will eat approximately two and a half\u00a0pounds of feed daily. However, this will vary due to each flock member\u2019s breed, age and metabolism.<\/p>\n![\"supply-guide\"](\"https:\/\/img.hobbyfarms.com\/supply-guide-1-300x225.jpg\")
After new birds are added to the flock, monitor them for success or fallouts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nMore Space in Coop & Run<\/span><\/h2>\nA major mistake a chicken keeper can make when acquiring new birds is failing to have adequate spacing in the coop and run. Chickens living in crowded conditions are more stressed, have increased chances of contracting respiratory issues and other health problems, and are more likely to feather pick, egg eat, and display other cannibalistic behaviors.<\/p>\n
Experts suggest supplying at least 10 square feet in the coop, 15 square feet of run space, and 10 inches of perch space per hen, but giving your birds even more space is a good idea.<\/p>\n
Even though our flocks like to be outside free-ranging<\/a> as much as possible, there are times when leaving the coop isn\u2019t a safe option. Heavy snowstorms, high winds, hurricanes and predators<\/a> are all possible scenarios that may require your chickens to spend a day or two inside their snug coop. For these reasons, building a larger coop and run than you need will make your chickens less grumpy when they need to stay indoors.<\/p>\nWhen building the run, always plan for a larger run than the number of birds you plan to house. This practice ensures your hens will have more access to green grass. (This is especially important for chickens housed in a permanent run.)<\/p>\n
Expanding your flock may include building on your existing coop and run, or depending on your setup, buying a separate coop and run may be the best option. Building onto the current enclosure is usually the more affordable option; however, buying might be preferred if you aren\u2019t handy with tools.<\/p>\n
Whether you build or buy isn\u2019t as crucial as ensuring there is enough room to house chickens without overcrowding. Always have additional housing set up and ready for the new arrivals before acquiring new birds.<\/p>\n
Acquiring New Chickens<\/span><\/h2>\nThere are many ways to expand your flock, from purchasing chicks from the local hatchery or feed store to adopting a hen or rooster from your local animal shelter. Personal preference plays a part in deciding what option you choose, so let\u2019s look over some of the popular choices.<\/p>\n
Chicks:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>The most popular choice backyard chicken keepers choose to expand their flocks, chicks are difficult to resist with their tiny size, adorable faces and loud cheeps. Purchase chicks from a reputable source to ensure bringing home some healthy additions to your flock.<\/p>\n\n- Hatcheries are the best and most popular way to purchase new chicks or hatching eggs. While many hatcheries require a minimum of 25 chicks per order, some have dropped those numbers to as little as three during the warmer months. When purchasing hatching eggs or chicks, try to purchase from hatcheries that support the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t Get Greedy<\/span><\/h2>\nGetting more chicks or chickens when you don\u2019t have room for them causes overcrowding in the coop and run and increases your flock\u2019s stress levels. Stressed chickens are more likely to feather pick (a behavior leading to cannibalism) and can cause egg eating or reduced egg production.<\/p>\n
The best way to overcome this issue is simply not giving in to \u201ccollecting\u201d chickens. Let\u2019s face it: If you go to the feed-supply store with even the slightest possibility of coming home with chicks you don\u2019t have room for, you\u2019ll do it. So, get disciplined. Trust me, it\u2019s much easier to avoid if you tell yourself you can\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Avoid feed-supply stores and other places that sell chicks during spring chick days. Buy extra feed or other necessary supplies ahead of time to avoid unplanned chick purchases. And stay off the hatchery websites unless you\u2019re actively planning on adding to your flock. Finally, don\u2019t attend poultry swaps. The temptation can be overcome, so don\u2019t put yourself in a position where you won\u2019t be able to resist.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n- Hatch your own. If you have a broody hen and some fertile eggs on your hands, hatching your own can be very rewarding. Some poultry-keepers prefer to hatch their own to avoid the stress of shipping chicks through the mail.<\/li>\n
- A feed-supply store is another great way to bring home new chicks. While they may occasionally have chicks for sale, most stores require you to place your order in the winter months for spring arrivals.<\/li>\n
- Craigslist is a popular place to find chicks, but it should be avoided whenever possible. Chicks from backyard flock-keepers may carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella that will spread to an existing flock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Adult Birds:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>While some backyard chicken keepers prefer bringing adult birds home versus raising chicks, there may be better options than this practice. Adult chickens are more likely to carry diseases or parasites than chicks. Follow these guidelines to help keep all your chickens healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nRescue Birds<\/span><\/h2>\nJust like dogs and cats, chickens sadly get dumped on the side of the road, too. These chickens may wander into your backyard, be found in a mall parking lot or be temporary residents at a local animal shelter. Rescue chickens have much to offer those wanting to make a difference for chickens in need. When rescuing chickens, take the same precautions when purchasing adult hens to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\u2022 Whether or not you purchase chickens vaccinated for Marek\u2019s disease will depend on whether your current flock is vaccinated. Housing vaccinated chickens with unvaccinated chickens could result in sick birds.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Buy from a reputable source. Poultry shows and swaps are a great way to bring home some new hens but also a great way to bring home disease. Purchasing started pullets from a reputable hatchery supporting the NPIP is a safer option, as these come fully vaccinated and have been tested to ensure they aren\u2019t contracting a disease.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Quarantine new chickens for at least 30 days before interacting with the resident chickens. Wear separate clothes and shoes to tend to the new chickens during the quarantine process. Tend to the established flock first, and wash your hands and face between interactions.<\/p>\n
Feed Costs<\/span><\/h2>\nChickens may only eat a little feed per bird, but adding more chickens to the flock will increase the feed consumption. If you\u2019re raising chickens for profit, the more birds you have, the more profit you\u2019ll make. However, this could pose a concern for the backyard chicken-keeper raising chickens simply for enjoyment.<\/p>\n
The cost of your monthly feed bill will depend on the number of birds in the flock, the feed brand and whether you feed organic feed. Generally, a chicken should eat about half a cup of feed daily \u2014varying on breed, access to green pastures and even the time of year, as chickens tend to eat less in summer and more in winter. A flock of 10 chickens will eat approximately two and a half\u00a0pounds of feed daily. However, this will vary due to each flock member\u2019s breed, age and metabolism.<\/p>\nAfter new birds are added to the flock, monitor them for success or fallouts.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nMore Space in Coop & Run<\/span><\/h2>\nA major mistake a chicken keeper can make when acquiring new birds is failing to have adequate spacing in the coop and run. Chickens living in crowded conditions are more stressed, have increased chances of contracting respiratory issues and other health problems, and are more likely to feather pick, egg eat, and display other cannibalistic behaviors.<\/p>\n
Experts suggest supplying at least 10 square feet in the coop, 15 square feet of run space, and 10 inches of perch space per hen, but giving your birds even more space is a good idea.<\/p>\n
Even though our flocks like to be outside free-ranging<\/a> as much as possible, there are times when leaving the coop isn\u2019t a safe option. Heavy snowstorms, high winds, hurricanes and predators<\/a> are all possible scenarios that may require your chickens to spend a day or two inside their snug coop. For these reasons, building a larger coop and run than you need will make your chickens less grumpy when they need to stay indoors.<\/p>\nWhen building the run, always plan for a larger run than the number of birds you plan to house. This practice ensures your hens will have more access to green grass. (This is especially important for chickens housed in a permanent run.)<\/p>\n
Expanding your flock may include building on your existing coop and run, or depending on your setup, buying a separate coop and run may be the best option. Building onto the current enclosure is usually the more affordable option; however, buying might be preferred if you aren\u2019t handy with tools.<\/p>\n
Whether you build or buy isn\u2019t as crucial as ensuring there is enough room to house chickens without overcrowding. Always have additional housing set up and ready for the new arrivals before acquiring new birds.<\/p>\n
Acquiring New Chickens<\/span><\/h2>\nThere are many ways to expand your flock, from purchasing chicks from the local hatchery or feed store to adopting a hen or rooster from your local animal shelter. Personal preference plays a part in deciding what option you choose, so let\u2019s look over some of the popular choices.<\/p>\n
Chicks:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>The most popular choice backyard chicken keepers choose to expand their flocks, chicks are difficult to resist with their tiny size, adorable faces and loud cheeps. Purchase chicks from a reputable source to ensure bringing home some healthy additions to your flock.<\/p>\n\n- Hatcheries are the best and most popular way to purchase new chicks or hatching eggs. While many hatcheries require a minimum of 25 chicks per order, some have dropped those numbers to as little as three during the warmer months. When purchasing hatching eggs or chicks, try to purchase from hatcheries that support the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t Get Greedy<\/span><\/h2>\nGetting more chicks or chickens when you don\u2019t have room for them causes overcrowding in the coop and run and increases your flock\u2019s stress levels. Stressed chickens are more likely to feather pick (a behavior leading to cannibalism) and can cause egg eating or reduced egg production.<\/p>\n
The best way to overcome this issue is simply not giving in to \u201ccollecting\u201d chickens. Let\u2019s face it: If you go to the feed-supply store with even the slightest possibility of coming home with chicks you don\u2019t have room for, you\u2019ll do it. So, get disciplined. Trust me, it\u2019s much easier to avoid if you tell yourself you can\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Avoid feed-supply stores and other places that sell chicks during spring chick days. Buy extra feed or other necessary supplies ahead of time to avoid unplanned chick purchases. And stay off the hatchery websites unless you\u2019re actively planning on adding to your flock. Finally, don\u2019t attend poultry swaps. The temptation can be overcome, so don\u2019t put yourself in a position where you won\u2019t be able to resist.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n- Hatch your own. If you have a broody hen and some fertile eggs on your hands, hatching your own can be very rewarding. Some poultry-keepers prefer to hatch their own to avoid the stress of shipping chicks through the mail.<\/li>\n
- A feed-supply store is another great way to bring home new chicks. While they may occasionally have chicks for sale, most stores require you to place your order in the winter months for spring arrivals.<\/li>\n
- Craigslist is a popular place to find chicks, but it should be avoided whenever possible. Chicks from backyard flock-keepers may carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella that will spread to an existing flock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Adult Birds:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>While some backyard chicken keepers prefer bringing adult birds home versus raising chicks, there may be better options than this practice. Adult chickens are more likely to carry diseases or parasites than chicks. Follow these guidelines to help keep all your chickens healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nRescue Birds<\/span><\/h2>\nJust like dogs and cats, chickens sadly get dumped on the side of the road, too. These chickens may wander into your backyard, be found in a mall parking lot or be temporary residents at a local animal shelter. Rescue chickens have much to offer those wanting to make a difference for chickens in need. When rescuing chickens, take the same precautions when purchasing adult hens to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\u2022 Whether or not you purchase chickens vaccinated for Marek\u2019s disease will depend on whether your current flock is vaccinated. Housing vaccinated chickens with unvaccinated chickens could result in sick birds.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Buy from a reputable source. Poultry shows and swaps are a great way to bring home some new hens but also a great way to bring home disease. Purchasing started pullets from a reputable hatchery supporting the NPIP is a safer option, as these come fully vaccinated and have been tested to ensure they aren\u2019t contracting a disease.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Quarantine new chickens for at least 30 days before interacting with the resident chickens. Wear separate clothes and shoes to tend to the new chickens during the quarantine process. Tend to the established flock first, and wash your hands and face between interactions.<\/p>\n
More Space in Coop & Run<\/span><\/h2>\nA major mistake a chicken keeper can make when acquiring new birds is failing to have adequate spacing in the coop and run. Chickens living in crowded conditions are more stressed, have increased chances of contracting respiratory issues and other health problems, and are more likely to feather pick, egg eat, and display other cannibalistic behaviors.<\/p>\n
Experts suggest supplying at least 10 square feet in the coop, 15 square feet of run space, and 10 inches of perch space per hen, but giving your birds even more space is a good idea.<\/p>\n
Even though our flocks like to be outside free-ranging<\/a> as much as possible, there are times when leaving the coop isn\u2019t a safe option. Heavy snowstorms, high winds, hurricanes and predators<\/a> are all possible scenarios that may require your chickens to spend a day or two inside their snug coop. For these reasons, building a larger coop and run than you need will make your chickens less grumpy when they need to stay indoors.<\/p>\nWhen building the run, always plan for a larger run than the number of birds you plan to house. This practice ensures your hens will have more access to green grass. (This is especially important for chickens housed in a permanent run.)<\/p>\n
Expanding your flock may include building on your existing coop and run, or depending on your setup, buying a separate coop and run may be the best option. Building onto the current enclosure is usually the more affordable option; however, buying might be preferred if you aren\u2019t handy with tools.<\/p>\n
Whether you build or buy isn\u2019t as crucial as ensuring there is enough room to house chickens without overcrowding. Always have additional housing set up and ready for the new arrivals before acquiring new birds.<\/p>\n
Acquiring New Chickens<\/span><\/h2>\nThere are many ways to expand your flock, from purchasing chicks from the local hatchery or feed store to adopting a hen or rooster from your local animal shelter. Personal preference plays a part in deciding what option you choose, so let\u2019s look over some of the popular choices.<\/p>\n
Chicks:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>The most popular choice backyard chicken keepers choose to expand their flocks, chicks are difficult to resist with their tiny size, adorable faces and loud cheeps. Purchase chicks from a reputable source to ensure bringing home some healthy additions to your flock.<\/p>\n\n- Hatcheries are the best and most popular way to purchase new chicks or hatching eggs. While many hatcheries require a minimum of 25 chicks per order, some have dropped those numbers to as little as three during the warmer months. When purchasing hatching eggs or chicks, try to purchase from hatcheries that support the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t Get Greedy<\/span><\/h2>\nGetting more chicks or chickens when you don\u2019t have room for them causes overcrowding in the coop and run and increases your flock\u2019s stress levels. Stressed chickens are more likely to feather pick (a behavior leading to cannibalism) and can cause egg eating or reduced egg production.<\/p>\n
The best way to overcome this issue is simply not giving in to \u201ccollecting\u201d chickens. Let\u2019s face it: If you go to the feed-supply store with even the slightest possibility of coming home with chicks you don\u2019t have room for, you\u2019ll do it. So, get disciplined. Trust me, it\u2019s much easier to avoid if you tell yourself you can\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Avoid feed-supply stores and other places that sell chicks during spring chick days. Buy extra feed or other necessary supplies ahead of time to avoid unplanned chick purchases. And stay off the hatchery websites unless you\u2019re actively planning on adding to your flock. Finally, don\u2019t attend poultry swaps. The temptation can be overcome, so don\u2019t put yourself in a position where you won\u2019t be able to resist.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n- Hatch your own. If you have a broody hen and some fertile eggs on your hands, hatching your own can be very rewarding. Some poultry-keepers prefer to hatch their own to avoid the stress of shipping chicks through the mail.<\/li>\n
- A feed-supply store is another great way to bring home new chicks. While they may occasionally have chicks for sale, most stores require you to place your order in the winter months for spring arrivals.<\/li>\n
- Craigslist is a popular place to find chicks, but it should be avoided whenever possible. Chicks from backyard flock-keepers may carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella that will spread to an existing flock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Adult Birds:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>While some backyard chicken keepers prefer bringing adult birds home versus raising chicks, there may be better options than this practice. Adult chickens are more likely to carry diseases or parasites than chicks. Follow these guidelines to help keep all your chickens healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nRescue Birds<\/span><\/h2>\nJust like dogs and cats, chickens sadly get dumped on the side of the road, too. These chickens may wander into your backyard, be found in a mall parking lot or be temporary residents at a local animal shelter. Rescue chickens have much to offer those wanting to make a difference for chickens in need. When rescuing chickens, take the same precautions when purchasing adult hens to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\u2022 Whether or not you purchase chickens vaccinated for Marek\u2019s disease will depend on whether your current flock is vaccinated. Housing vaccinated chickens with unvaccinated chickens could result in sick birds.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Buy from a reputable source. Poultry shows and swaps are a great way to bring home some new hens but also a great way to bring home disease. Purchasing started pullets from a reputable hatchery supporting the NPIP is a safer option, as these come fully vaccinated and have been tested to ensure they aren\u2019t contracting a disease.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Quarantine new chickens for at least 30 days before interacting with the resident chickens. Wear separate clothes and shoes to tend to the new chickens during the quarantine process. Tend to the established flock first, and wash your hands and face between interactions.<\/p>\n
When building the run, always plan for a larger run than the number of birds you plan to house. This practice ensures your hens will have more access to green grass. (This is especially important for chickens housed in a permanent run.)<\/p>\n
Expanding your flock may include building on your existing coop and run, or depending on your setup, buying a separate coop and run may be the best option. Building onto the current enclosure is usually the more affordable option; however, buying might be preferred if you aren\u2019t handy with tools.<\/p>\n
Whether you build or buy isn\u2019t as crucial as ensuring there is enough room to house chickens without overcrowding. Always have additional housing set up and ready for the new arrivals before acquiring new birds.<\/p>\n
Acquiring New Chickens<\/span><\/h2>\nThere are many ways to expand your flock, from purchasing chicks from the local hatchery or feed store to adopting a hen or rooster from your local animal shelter. Personal preference plays a part in deciding what option you choose, so let\u2019s look over some of the popular choices.<\/p>\n
Chicks:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>The most popular choice backyard chicken keepers choose to expand their flocks, chicks are difficult to resist with their tiny size, adorable faces and loud cheeps. Purchase chicks from a reputable source to ensure bringing home some healthy additions to your flock.<\/p>\n\n- Hatcheries are the best and most popular way to purchase new chicks or hatching eggs. While many hatcheries require a minimum of 25 chicks per order, some have dropped those numbers to as little as three during the warmer months. When purchasing hatching eggs or chicks, try to purchase from hatcheries that support the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t Get Greedy<\/span><\/h2>\nGetting more chicks or chickens when you don\u2019t have room for them causes overcrowding in the coop and run and increases your flock\u2019s stress levels. Stressed chickens are more likely to feather pick (a behavior leading to cannibalism) and can cause egg eating or reduced egg production.<\/p>\n
The best way to overcome this issue is simply not giving in to \u201ccollecting\u201d chickens. Let\u2019s face it: If you go to the feed-supply store with even the slightest possibility of coming home with chicks you don\u2019t have room for, you\u2019ll do it. So, get disciplined. Trust me, it\u2019s much easier to avoid if you tell yourself you can\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Avoid feed-supply stores and other places that sell chicks during spring chick days. Buy extra feed or other necessary supplies ahead of time to avoid unplanned chick purchases. And stay off the hatchery websites unless you\u2019re actively planning on adding to your flock. Finally, don\u2019t attend poultry swaps. The temptation can be overcome, so don\u2019t put yourself in a position where you won\u2019t be able to resist.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\n- Hatch your own. If you have a broody hen and some fertile eggs on your hands, hatching your own can be very rewarding. Some poultry-keepers prefer to hatch their own to avoid the stress of shipping chicks through the mail.<\/li>\n
- A feed-supply store is another great way to bring home new chicks. While they may occasionally have chicks for sale, most stores require you to place your order in the winter months for spring arrivals.<\/li>\n
- Craigslist is a popular place to find chicks, but it should be avoided whenever possible. Chicks from backyard flock-keepers may carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella that will spread to an existing flock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Adult Birds:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>While some backyard chicken keepers prefer bringing adult birds home versus raising chicks, there may be better options than this practice. Adult chickens are more likely to carry diseases or parasites than chicks. Follow these guidelines to help keep all your chickens healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nRescue Birds<\/span><\/h2>\nJust like dogs and cats, chickens sadly get dumped on the side of the road, too. These chickens may wander into your backyard, be found in a mall parking lot or be temporary residents at a local animal shelter. Rescue chickens have much to offer those wanting to make a difference for chickens in need. When rescuing chickens, take the same precautions when purchasing adult hens to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\u2022 Whether or not you purchase chickens vaccinated for Marek\u2019s disease will depend on whether your current flock is vaccinated. Housing vaccinated chickens with unvaccinated chickens could result in sick birds.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Buy from a reputable source. Poultry shows and swaps are a great way to bring home some new hens but also a great way to bring home disease. Purchasing started pullets from a reputable hatchery supporting the NPIP is a safer option, as these come fully vaccinated and have been tested to ensure they aren\u2019t contracting a disease.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Quarantine new chickens for at least 30 days before interacting with the resident chickens. Wear separate clothes and shoes to tend to the new chickens during the quarantine process. Tend to the established flock first, and wash your hands and face between interactions.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Hatcheries are the best and most popular way to purchase new chicks or hatching eggs. While many hatcheries require a minimum of 25 chicks per order, some have dropped those numbers to as little as three during the warmer months. When purchasing hatching eggs or chicks, try to purchase from hatcheries that support the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n
\n \n Don\u2019t Get Greedy<\/span><\/h2>\n
Getting more chicks or chickens when you don\u2019t have room for them causes overcrowding in the coop and run and increases your flock\u2019s stress levels. Stressed chickens are more likely to feather pick (a behavior leading to cannibalism) and can cause egg eating or reduced egg production.<\/p>\n
The best way to overcome this issue is simply not giving in to \u201ccollecting\u201d chickens. Let\u2019s face it: If you go to the feed-supply store with even the slightest possibility of coming home with chicks you don\u2019t have room for, you\u2019ll do it. So, get disciplined. Trust me, it\u2019s much easier to avoid if you tell yourself you can\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Avoid feed-supply stores and other places that sell chicks during spring chick days. Buy extra feed or other necessary supplies ahead of time to avoid unplanned chick purchases. And stay off the hatchery websites unless you\u2019re actively planning on adding to your flock. Finally, don\u2019t attend poultry swaps. The temptation can be overcome, so don\u2019t put yourself in a position where you won\u2019t be able to resist.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
- \n
- Hatch your own. If you have a broody hen and some fertile eggs on your hands, hatching your own can be very rewarding. Some poultry-keepers prefer to hatch their own to avoid the stress of shipping chicks through the mail.<\/li>\n
- A feed-supply store is another great way to bring home new chicks. While they may occasionally have chicks for sale, most stores require you to place your order in the winter months for spring arrivals.<\/li>\n
- Craigslist is a popular place to find chicks, but it should be avoided whenever possible. Chicks from backyard flock-keepers may carry harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella that will spread to an existing flock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Adult Birds:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>While some backyard chicken keepers prefer bringing adult birds home versus raising chicks, there may be better options than this practice. Adult chickens are more likely to carry diseases or parasites than chicks. Follow these guidelines to help keep all your chickens healthy.<\/p>\n
\n\n
\n \n Rescue Birds<\/span><\/h2>\n
Just like dogs and cats, chickens sadly get dumped on the side of the road, too. These chickens may wander into your backyard, be found in a mall parking lot or be temporary residents at a local animal shelter. Rescue chickens have much to offer those wanting to make a difference for chickens in need. When rescuing chickens, take the same precautions when purchasing adult hens to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\u2022 Whether or not you purchase chickens vaccinated for Marek\u2019s disease will depend on whether your current flock is vaccinated. Housing vaccinated chickens with unvaccinated chickens could result in sick birds.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Buy from a reputable source. Poultry shows and swaps are a great way to bring home some new hens but also a great way to bring home disease. Purchasing started pullets from a reputable hatchery supporting the NPIP is a safer option, as these come fully vaccinated and have been tested to ensure they aren\u2019t contracting a disease.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Quarantine new chickens for at least 30 days before interacting with the resident chickens. Wear separate clothes and shoes to tend to the new chickens during the quarantine process. Tend to the established flock first, and wash your hands and face between interactions.<\/p>\n
![\"supply-guide\"](\"https:\/\/img.hobbyfarms.com\/supply-guide-3-300x200.jpg\")