You can buy Polish chickens from local hatcheries, poultry farms, or online retailers specializing in heritage breeds and backyard poultry supplies.
Polish chickens stand out with their unique feathered crests and quirky personalities. Whether you want show birds or backyard pets, finding quality Polish chickens requires knowing where to look. This guide covers the best places to buy them and essential care tips.
Best Places to Buy Polish Chickens
1. Reputable Hatcheries
Hatcheries specialize in breeding healthy poultry. Two top options for Polish chickens include:
- Meyer Hatchery – Offers White Crested Blue Polish with a strong genetic line
- Cackle Hatchery – Known for quality White Crested Blue Polish chickens since 1971
2. Local Breeders
Check poultry associations or farm listings for breeders near you. Local breeders often have:
- More color varieties (Buff Laced, Silver, Golden)
- Adult birds you can evaluate before buying
- Advice tailored to your climate
3. Poultry Shows & Auctions
Attend events sanctioned by the American Poultry Association. You’ll find:
- Show-quality birds
- Rare color variations
- Networking with experienced breeders
Polish Chicken Varieties
| Variety | Egg Color | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White Crested Blue | White | Most common show variety |
| Buff Laced | White | Golden feathers with lace pattern |
| Silver | White | Striking black-and-white plumage |
Caring for Polish Chickens
Special Housing Needs
Their crests require accommodations:
- Use nipple waterers to keep crests dry
- Provide higher perches – they’re good fliers
- Trim crest feathers if they obstruct vision
Learn more about coop sizing for small flocks.
Behavior Considerations
Polish chickens have unique personalities:
- Hens are typically docile
- Roosters can be aggressive (separate if needed)
- More skittish than other breeds
For behavior issues, see our guide on stopping pecking problems.
Winter Care
Their crests make them vulnerable in cold weather:
- Keep them dry – wet crests can freeze
- Provide extra bedding
- Consider keeping indoors during extreme cold
What to Expect When Buying
Pricing
Polish chickens typically cost:
- $4-8 per chick
- $15-50 for started pullets
- $50-300 for show-quality adults
Shipping Considerations
When ordering chicks by mail:
- Most hatcheries require minimum orders (often 10-25 chicks)
- Spring is the best time for shipping
- Be prepared with a brooder setup
Common Challenges
Breeding Difficulties
Polish chickens present some breeding challenges:
- Blue varieties don’t breed true (expect mixed colors)
- Low fertility rates in some lines
- Hens rarely go broody
Predator Vulnerability
Their limited vision makes them easy targets:
- Not ideal for free-ranging
- Require secure enclosures
- May need separate housing from more aggressive breeds