09/05/2026
Ive gotta soap box this because its been driving me insane...
You want new chicks right?? Yayyy! Then you ask the breeders posting about their availability, prices, photos, etc. (Which we are always happy to chat about!!)
We send them and have a nice conversation... then it happens-
[I can only have pullets/hens]
As breeders, we get it. We want only hens too but unfortunately the egg has a 50/50 shot at being ladies. Plus, we do need males in any species to continue life on earth. ♂️
Here is the thing, you can get straight run birds.
The amount of time it takes to grow them out and actually put them outside... or even mature enough to crow loudly, you will know the chick is indeed a boy. This gives you time to rehome them, drop them at auction or even find a meat person to take them.
Its a win-win. You get the type of birds you want from decent breeders and stop supporting these hatchery stock line thats will probably die of (purple comb disease) iykyk- in about 3 years anyways.
If you work with your breeder, they will more than likely be able to tell who is who before maturity. Some lines about 8 weeks... others closer to 12.
Support local poultry breeders. Get the fun birds! There are ways to move roos out once they show themselves. Its totally okay!
Nowwww the local municipalities that limit what you have and these dumb roo ordinances is another time & soap box 🤣 Ill get there eventually too. We all have a right to farm & grow/raise our own food. Appropriately in our space of course 💁♀️
