You can buy Leghorn chickens from local hatcheries, poultry farms, or online retailers like Murray McMurray Hatchery and Cackle Hatchery.
Leghorn chickens are prized for their exceptional egg-laying abilities, producing 280-320 large white eggs annually. Whether you’re starting a backyard flock or expanding your farm, finding healthy Leghorns is crucial. This guide covers the best places to buy Leghorn chickens and essential care considerations.
Best Places to Buy Leghorn Chickens
1. Reputable Hatcheries
National hatcheries like Cackle Hatchery and Myers Poultry specialize in Leghorns. They offer:
- NPIP-certified disease-free stock
- Day-old chicks shipped nationwide
- Production strains (280-360 eggs/year)
- Heritage bloodlines
2. Local Breeders
Check poultry associations for breeders near you. Local purchases allow:
- Visual inspection of birds
- No shipping stress
- Opportunity to see parent stock
- Immediate integration into your flock
3. Farm Supply Stores
Stores like Tractor Supply often carry Leghorn chicks seasonally. Call ahead for availability dates.
Leghorn Varieties Available
| Type | Egg Production | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl White Leghorn | 280-360 eggs/year | Best production strain |
| Single Comb Brown | 150-220 eggs/year | Heritage variety |
| Rose Comb White | 250-300 eggs/year | Cold-hardy comb |
What to Look for When Buying
Health Indicators
- Bright, clear eyes
- Clean vent area
- Active movement
- Smooth, well-groomed feathers
Age Considerations
Leghorns start laying at 4.5-5 months. Consider your timeline:
- Day-old chicks: Cheapest but require brooding
- Started pullets: More expensive but closer to laying age
Caring for Your Leghorns
Housing Requirements
Leghorns need proper space to thrive. Learn about coop size requirements for 10 chickens to ensure adequate room.
Predator Protection
White Leghorns are vulnerable due to their color. Implement these safeguards:
- Secure fencing with buried hardware cloth
- Locking coop doors
- Predator-proof run
Feeding for Optimal Production
Leghorns have excellent feed conversion:
- Starter feed (0-8 weeks): 18-20% protein
- Grower feed (8-16 weeks): 16-18% protein
- Layer feed (16+ weeks): 16% protein with calcium
Common Challenges
Flighty Nature
Leghorns are active and can be skittish. Tips for handling:
- Spend time with them daily
- Use treats to build trust
- Consider wing clipping if free-ranging
Broodiness
Leghorns rarely go broody, which maintains consistent egg production but means you’ll need an incubator if breeding.
Integrating New Birds
When adding Leghorns to an existing flock, follow proper introduction techniques to reduce stress and aggression.
Cost Considerations
- Day-old chicks: $3-$5 each
- Started pullets: $15-$25 each
- Shipping: $25-$50 per order
- Minimum orders: Often 10-25 chicks
Seasonal Availability
Most hatcheries ship Leghorns February through August. Order early for best selection.
Why Choose Leghorns?
These Mediterranean birds excel at:
- Consistent egg production
- Excellent feed conversion
- Heat tolerance
- Low maintenance requirements
With proper care from quality stock, Leghorns will reward you with years of abundant egg production.