IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Usually 5-6 weeks after the hatch, but you can do less depending on the weather and where they are living.

No, you do not have to refrigerate the eggs, and they can be kept on your counter for multiple weeks before use. However, your eggs will last longer if kept in the fridge.

They start laying eggs at about 6 months, but the age varies for different breeds.

When young, unless the breed is autosexing (like a Cream Legbar), it will be very difficult to determine the sex of your chick. Some chicks can start to show signs at 4-5 weeks, but others you may not know the gender of until they crow or lay an egg. If your chick is a roo, it may have a redder comb, larger legs, and be bigger compared to the others.

There are many breeds of chicken that are very docile, but we have found that Silkies, Cochins, and Orpingtons are very gentle and sociable. However, most breeds that have been handraised since chicks can be very attached and loving to their family.

In the winter, laying hens tend to lay less eggs due to the reduced sunlight. Do not worry if your production slows down; there is nothing wrong with your hens. During this time they may also molt (shedding their old feathers to get new ones). The hens will use all their energy to replenish their feathers, as well as take a "rest" from laying. Their egg production should pick up when the daylight begins to lengthen again.

You can set up an appointment to get hens/pullets, roosters, fresh or fertilized eggs, or baby chicks by emailing us at bizzybarnyard@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!