The best time to buy baby chickens is in early spring, as they thrive in warmer weather and are ready to grow during the peak of the growing season.
Deciding when to buy baby chickens impacts their health, egg production, and your convenience. Timing depends on climate, purpose (eggs vs. meat), and local availability. This guide covers seasonal advantages, breed considerations, and expert tips.
Ideal Seasons to Buy Baby Chickens
Spring (March–May)
Spring is the most popular time to buy chicks. Warmer temperatures reduce heating costs, and chicks mature by fall, starting egg production before winter. Feed stores and hatcheries offer the widest breed selection during spring.
Fall (September–October)
Some homesteaders prefer fall purchases. Chicks require less feed over winter and start laying in spring when egg demand rises. However, they need consistent heat sources until fully feathered. Cold-hardy breeds like Rhode Island Reds handle this best.
Winter Risks
Shipping chicks in freezing weather risks hypothermia. Local purchases are safer, but chicks need indoor brooders longer. Summer heat can also stress young birds during transport.
Key Factors When Buying Chicks
1. Purpose
- Egg layers: Buy pullets (females) or sexed chicks. Breeds like Leghorns start laying at 18–20 weeks.
- Meat birds: Cornish Cross chicks grow rapidly and are ready for processing in 8–10 weeks.
- Dual-purpose: Orpingtons and Plymouth Rocks provide eggs and meat.
2. Breed Selection
| Breed | Egg Color | Cold Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Red | Brown | Excellent |
| Silkie | Cream | Moderate |
| Ameraucana | Blue/Green | Good |
3. Source Reliability
Reputable hatcheries include Murray McMurray and Meyer Hatchery. Local farms often sell hardier, acclimated chicks. Avoid impulse buys at feed stores unless staff can verify health and breed.
Preparing for Chicks
Essential Supplies
- Brooder box (plastic tub or cardboard box)
- Heat lamp (95°F for week 1, reduce by 5°F weekly)
- Chick starter feed (medicated or unmedicated)
- Waterer with shallow base
Common Mistakes
- Overcrowding: Allow ½ sq ft per chick initially.
- Incorrect temperature: Chicks huddled under lamp = too cold; avoiding lamp = too hot.
- Poor hygiene: Change bedding daily to prevent pasty butt.
Long-Term Considerations
Coop Timing
Chicks can move outdoors at 6–8 weeks if fully feathered and nighttime temps stay above 50°F. Coop size should allow 2–3 sq ft per adult bird.
Egg Production Cycles
Spring chicks lay consistently until their first molt (usually at 18 months). Fall chicks may pause laying during shorter winter days unless you provide supplemental light.
Predator Protection
Install hardware cloth (not chicken wire) and secure latches. Train chickens to return to the coop at dusk for safety.
For more on chicken behavior, see Backyard Chickens’ seasonal guide or The Happy Chicken Coop’s tips.