Spring is finally here, and for backyard chicken keepers, that means chick shipping season is in full swing! If you’ve been dreaming of fresh eggs and fluffy backyard companions, now is the perfect time to start your flock.
Why Spring is the Best Time to Start Your Flock
While chicks can be shipped year-round, spring is the easiest and safest time to bring them home. During winter, hatcheries like My Pet Chicken require a minimum of 8 chicks per order to keep them warm in transit. But now that temperatures are rising, you can order as few as 3 chicks—making it the perfect time for beginners or small-scale backyard flocks.
How to Pick the Right Breeds for Your Flock
With so many breeds available, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider:
- For lots of eggs: Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Australorps are great choices.
- For friendly, docile birds: Buff Orpingtons, Silkies, and Cochins make wonderful pets.
- For colorful egg baskets: Easter Eggers, Olive Eggers, and Marans lay unique shades.
- For heat or cold tolerance: Brahmas and Barred Rocks handle cold well, while Leghorns thrive in heat.
Not sure which breed is right for you?
My Pet Chicken offer variety packs so you can mix and match!
How Chick Delivery Works
Ordering chicks online might seem unusual, but hatcheries have been safely shipping chicks for years. Here’s what to expect:
Ÿ“¦ Chicks arrive via USPS Priority Mail, usually within 1–2 days of hatching.
Ÿ”¥ They’re packed with extra care, often with a heat pack or extra bedding for warmth.
Ÿ’Œ You’ll get a call from your post office when they arrive, so be ready to pick them up!
Brooding 101: What You Need to Raise Happy, Healthy Chicks
Once your chicks arrive, they’ll need a warm, safe space to grow for the first few weeks. This setup is called a brooder, and it should include:
Ÿ”¥ A heat source – A heat lamp or safer radiant heat plate keeps chicks warm (starting at 95°F and gradually decreasing each week).
🍽 Food & water – Provide chick starter feed and fresh water in shallow, easy-to-access containers.
Ÿ¡ A safe enclosure – Use a plastic tub, large cardboard box, or small animal pen with high sides.
ŸŒ¿ Bedding – Pine shavings or paper towels help absorb messes and keep chicks comfortable.
Start Your Flock the Smart Way Ÿ¡🐔
Spring is the season of new beginnings—and that includes your backyard flock! To help you get started, we’re including a FREE chick voucher to My Pet Chicken with every Smart Coop.
