Preparing for Spring Chicks: Tips and Resources for Success
by ISU Extension and Outreach
April 23, 2022

By Amy Powell–Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

AMES, Iowa – As spring chicks begin to appear at local farm stores, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Youth Animal Science Education Specialist Amy Powell offers some tips and resources.

The first step to introducing poultry into a farm is selecting a breed. Many breeds are considered “dual purpose,” which means they are raised for both meat and eggs.

“Most chicks available at farm stores are pretty hardy,” explained Powell. “They’re usually Rhode Island Reds, or a crossbreed like Black Star or Red Star.”

Powell recommends using a local hatchery. “In my experience, it’s less likely that a rooster might accidentally slip into the mix when you order from a hatchery rather than getting chicks at a farm store, but you will likely get healthy chicks either way,” said Powell.

Find out how to get chicks started off right with advise from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Housing is also an important consideration when building a flock. Chicks younger than six weeks require a brooding period, where they will need to be kept inside and warm. Powell recommends a 4-H publication from the University of Tennessee Extension, which addresses specific temperatures for brooding based on the chicks’ age and answers other common questions about the process. A chicken coop should also be safe from predators, including neighborhood cats and dogs.

While chicks generally tend to be healthy, in order to keep both people and poultry safe, it is important to maintain hygienic practices to keep them that way. It is important to have clean clothes, boots, and hands around poultry to prevent illness. Poultry owners are encouraged to consult extension resources outlining good biosecurity practices and answering questions about HPAI.

Chicks and adult chickens also will need access to food and water. Chicken feed sold at farm stores is a great option, as it has been specifically formulated to meet a chicken’s needs at various stages of growth. Chicks under six weeks should be given starter feed.

After six weeks, chicks being raised for meat should be given a finisher diet until they are processed, while those being raised as layers or for breeding purposes should be given a grower diet. At 20 weeks, or after hens begin laying, hens should be switched to a layer diet.

Finally, it is important to check local restrictions before purchasing chickens. Different areas may have different restrictions.

Raising chickens is a fun and educational way to engage with agriculture and food production, especially for children. Powell recommends that children interested in raising poultry get involved with 4-H, where they can learn more about livestock and enter competitions. A short course offering advice on getting started with chickens is also available through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Extension Store.

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