Tractor Supply typically receives new shipments of chicks in the spring, around late February to early April, depending on location and demand.
Tractor Supply Company is a popular destination for backyard chicken enthusiasts. Their annual “Chick Days” event brings in shipments of baby chicks from February through August. This guide covers everything you need to know about their chicken availability, breeds offered, and how to prepare for your new flock.
Tractor Supply Chicken Season Schedule
Tractor Supply stores receive chick shipments seasonally during their “Chick Days” promotion. This typically runs from February through August each year. Exact dates vary by location and climate.
Typical Chick Arrival Months
- February – First shipments arrive in warmer states
- March – Most stores begin receiving chicks
- April – Peak season with greatest variety
- May-July – Continued shipments
- August – Final shipments before season ends
Stores receive new chicks weekly during this period. Older chicks are often discounted to make room for new arrivals. Learn more about the best time to buy chicks.
Types of Chickens Available
Tractor Supply offers several categories of chickens:
Heritage Breeds
- Rhode Island Reds
- Barred Rocks
- Wyandottes
- Orpingtons
Hybrid Layers
- ISA Browns
- Golden Comets
- Red Stars
- Black Stars
Bantam Breeds
- Silkies
- Sebrights
- Polish
The selection varies by store and shipment. Some locations offer rare breeds like Ayam Cemani or Olive Eggers.
Sexing Options
Tractor Supply offers three sexing options:
| Type | Description | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Run | Unsexed mix of males and females | 50/50 mix |
| Pullets | Sexed females | 90% accurate |
| Sex-Links | Color-sexed hybrids | Nearly 100% |
Preparing for Your Chicks
Before bringing chicks home, you’ll need:
Essential Supplies
- Brooder with heat source (90-95°F for first week)
- Chick starter feed
- Waterer with clean water
- Bedding (pine shavings recommended)
Advanced Preparation
Consider these additional steps:
- Set up brooder 24 hours early to stabilize temperature
- Place paper towels under feeders initially
- Prepare a properly sized coop for when they mature
- Research local ordinances about roosters
Selecting Healthy Chicks
When choosing chicks at Tractor Supply:
What to Look For
- Active, alert behavior
- Clear, bright eyes
- Clean vents
- Full crops (indicating they’re eating)
Red Flags
- Lethargic chicks
- Pasty butt (feces stuck to vent)
- Labored breathing
- Visible injuries
Caring for Your New Chicks
Proper care in the first weeks is critical:
Brooder Management
- Maintain proper temperature (reduce 5°F each week)
- Keep bedding clean and dry
- Provide 24/7 access to fresh water
- Use chick starter feed for first 8 weeks
Health Monitoring
- Watch for pasty butt daily
- Check for proper growth
- Observe social interactions
- Isolate any sick chicks immediately
For more on chicken behavior, see our guide on why chickens follow their owners.
Transitioning to the Coop
When chicks are 6-8 weeks old:
Preparation Steps
- Fully feathered
- Accustomed to outdoor temperatures
- Trained to use roosts
- Eating grower feed
Coop Requirements
- 4 sq ft per bird minimum
- Secure from predators
- Proper ventilation
- Nesting boxes for layers
According to Chicken Scratch NY, Tractor Supply’s chick selection varies by location and season. Some stores receive weekly shipments during peak season.
Ethical Considerations
While convenient, there are concerns about Tractor Supply’s chick sales:
- High mortality rates in some shipments
- Inadequate brooder displays in stores
- Impulse purchases leading to abandoned birds
As reported by United Poultry Concerns, some stores have faced criticism for chick care practices. Always inspect chicks carefully before purchasing.