Expert: Abi - 5/23/2010

Question
Hi. We are getting chickens in June and we are so excited. We are getting a Barred plymouth rock, Rhode island red, Buff orpington, and a rooster faverolle. We are getting them at a day old shipped from Connecticut. Since we are only getting 4 every one counts. if one dies... we don't want to get another shipment and everyone is special. I was wondering what the risk of one dying is. Is it common or not? Is one breed more susceptible to death? And, does certain breeders add an extra chicken in the batch?  Please answer ASAP. Thanks so much.

Answer
Hello Ella,

Unfortunately, as you're getting four chicks I would say there is a good chance of something going wrong, especially as they are a day old. Chicks are difficult to raise and pullets are always the best ones to buy if you're a first time owner. I don't get my chickens in batches, I generally pick them up from places I know or have visited if I want something new, so I don't know if breeders add in extra chickens if they send them in batches. You are getting good, hardy breeds so I wouldn't worry too much, but keep your mind open to the idea of getting point of lay hens instead which are easy to deal with and docile :)

Thanks for your question.