You can buy chickens near you from several types of sources:
- Local farm supply or feed stores such as Tractor Supply often sell live chicks during spring and early summer, usually on designated "chick days." You can pick chicks up in person and sometimes order specific breeds in advance. These stores typically offer vaccinated chicks, though breed options may be limited
- Local small farms or breeders may sell chicks, hatching eggs, or adult birds. Buying from local breeders supports small businesses and often means the chickens have been raised with better care and habitat. You might find local breeders through online community groups, Craigslist, or poultry swaps
- Online hatcheries ship day-old chicks directly to you. Popular hatcheries include Cackle Hatchery, Meyer Hatchery, Hoover's Hatchery, and My Pet Chicken. These hatcheries offer a wide variety of breeds and often provide disease-resistant and vaccinated birds. Chick season typically runs from spring through summer, but varies by breed and hatchery practices
- Specialty delivery services exist in some regions, such as "Chickens to Your Door" in the UK, which delivers vaccinated hens to collection points
Before purchasing, ensure you have your coop and brooding setup ready, and check local regulations on keeping chickens. Joining local chicken-keeping groups on social media can also provide recommendations and support
. If you want to buy meat chickens rather than live birds, local farms like Sunrise Farms (Virginia) or Marion Acres (Oregon) offer all-natural, pasture- raised chickens for sale at farm stores or by order
. In summary, start by checking local feed stores and farms, then explore online hatcheries for more breed options and delivery convenience. Joining local poultry communities can also help you find reputable sellers near you.
