Have you guessed what was inside? Yes, chicks! Twenty-five Rhode Island red chicks, to be exact. Straight-run, which means they aren't sexed and that about half will be pullets (young hens) and half will be cockerels (young males).
You might enjoy this post on deciphering hatchery catalogs and how to order your chicks.
Back at home, I filled the waterer in my brooder and carefully opened the box. One by one I took out the chicks, dipping their beaks in the water for their very first drink. This way, I know that each one has had a drink and that I haven't overlooked any, as I might if I just put them in the brooder and then tried to give each a drink.
Related post: For Healthy, Happy Chickens, Start Your Chicks Off Right
After cracking several of the plastic bases on chick waterers, I've switched to the metal base (affiliate link) - but that was after I took these photos. Evidently I'm a clutz, and metal is harder to break. I like the clean-ability of the plastic waterers and feeders but was tired of having to replace them.
This is my first experience with Rhode Island reds. They are such a pretty color, not the all-over gold of buff Orpington chicks, but an ombre red that fades to buff or cream under their wings and bellies.
And such tiny little feathers on their wings already. Chicks grow feathers so quickly, there are just a few days of complete fluffiness. Take photos right away or it's too late.
I prefer to raise chicks in the summer time when I don't need a heat lamp to keep them warm, but I fell into a special deal for these chicks that I couldn't pass up. If you use a heat lamp, be sure to hang it securely so it won't cause a fire.
Do you have a favorite breed or are you trying something new this year?
Incubator 101
How to Order Chicks from a Hatchery
Starting Your Chicks Off Right
This post has been shared at some of my favorite blog hops.
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I can't hardly wait until it's my turn to pick up the chicks! :)
ReplyDeleteHow long before you pick yours up, Dawn? And what kind(s) are you getting?
DeleteThose are cute little baby chicks.... love the color. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, that coloring is quite unique, isn't it?
Deleteawww, so sweet! This brings back special memories for me. Our very first chicks were Rhode Island Reds, and yes, they arrived at the post office just like you describe. And I believe we started with 25 as well!
ReplyDeleteI hope one day to be able to keep chickens again. Thank you for giving us this little peek :)
I'm glad you enjoyed it, Linda. I hope you can have chickens again some day.
DeleteWe purchased babies at Tractor Supply a couple of weeks ago. We got on Rhode Island Red, which is a new breed for us to try! We also got 2 Silver Wyondottes, 2 Cu Cu Morans, & 1 Barred Rock. Ours are all hens.
ReplyDeleteThey were lucky babies to go home with you, Karla.
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