When it comes to buying chickens, there are many factors that you need to consider such as breed, size, price, and availability. Tractor Supply is a popular store that provides various poultry products, including chicks and adult chickens. In this article, we will discuss the kinds of chickens that Tractor Supply sells in-store, the pros and cons of each breed, and what to consider before bringing home your new feathered friends.
The Different Breeds Available
Tractor Supply offers a wide variety of chicken breeds that cater to different needs and preferences. Some of the popular breeds you can purchase include:
- Buff Orpingtons
- Americaunas
- Rhode Island Reds
- Plymouth Rocks
- Wyandottes
- Sussex
- Leghorns
Each breed has its unique characteristics, sizes, and colors. Buff Orpingtons, for instance, are friendly and docile birds that are suitable for beginners, while the Rhode Island Reds are hardy and excellent egg layers.
The Pros and Cons of Each Breed
It's essential to know the pros and cons of each breed before deciding what type of chicken to bring home. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of owning some of the popular chicken breeds available at Tractor Supply:
- Buff Orpingtons: Pros - friendly, good for beginners, excellent egg layers. Cons - can be heavy and bulky, may be prone to health issues, and may not lay eggs in winter.
- Americaunas: Pros - charming and unique, lay blue eggs, loveable personalities. Cons - can be challenging to obtain, can be expensive, and may require a more significant investment in chicken coop construction.
- Rhode Island Reds: Pros - hardy, excellent egg layers, easy to care for, and well-suited for beginners. Cons - can be aggressive, may require more space, and may not lay eggs during colder months.
- Plymouth Rocks: Pros - friendly, hardy and excellent egg layers, and easy to care for. Cons - can be aggressive with other chickens, and may not lay eggs during colder months.
- Wyandottes: Pros - cold-tolerant, friendly, and good at foraging. Cons - can be expensive, can be susceptible to crop impaction and can become broodie.
- Sussex: Pros - gentle, cold-tolerant, and excellent egg layers. Cons - can be expensive, may not be readily available, and may require a higher protein diet
- Leghorns: Pros - excellent egg layers, active, and suitable for free-range environments. Cons - can be flighty, can be noise, may not be suitable for colder climates.
What to Consider Before Purchasing Chickens
Before buying your chickens from Tractor Supply, there are several key factors you should consider to ensure that you make the best decision for you and your poultry flock. Here are four essential things to think about:
- Space: Make sure that you have enough space to keep the number of chickens you intend to purchase. The general rule is that each chicken needs about four square feet of coop space and ten square feet of run space.
- Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on chickens and their supplies, such as feed and bedding. Remember that some breeds may require more specialized care, which may add to the cost.
- Purpose: Consider why you want chickens. If it's for egg production, prioritize breeds that are excellent layers; if it's for meat, focus on breeds with excellent meat quality.
- Climate: Consider the climate of your area and select chicken breeds that can tolerate it.
Conclusion
Tractor Supply offers a wide range of chicken breeds that cater to varying needs and preferences. Before purchasing chickens, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each breed and consider essential factors such as space, budget, purpose, and climate. With proper care and attention, your feathered friends can provide you with years of joy, entertainment, and eggs.