I'm getting new chicks soon and wonder how many chicks to order to account for mortality. I want to end up with about 4 hens. I've read that 25% die, someone told me that half die... what has your experience been? I would assume with proper care (dry bedding, proper warmth, food & water, with lots of checking) that few chicks would die. Would week-old chicks have a higher survival rate than day-olds? (I'm buying them locally) Are some breeds worse than others? You guys are great, I know someone can answer this question for me. Thanks!

Lisa, I am devastated if I lose even 1 chick!! But mailing is stressful and it is possible that weather-chilling--or delays can contribut to mortality even several days to a week after arrival. I no longer purchase baby chicks and NEVER mail any myself until they are 10-12 weeks old or older (but unless you purchase from a breeder, you cannot find birds that age.) Since you are getting them locally, take your time to choose vigorous ones out of the bunch, get them home as quickly as possible--proper temperature and food and water right away. Some people add a little sugar to their water first day (I never have) and electrolytes, also. (I have only used electrolytes once, after 2 young bantams had a "break" with coccidiosis last year, and after their medication, I gave them electrolytes in their water for several days. Others use them routinely. Ask your feed store. But don't expect ANY to die!! Good luck! CJR

CJR, thanks for your encouraging advice! I have read your posts in other areas and you are always very helpful. I sure appreciate your experience and knowledge to help me get started. Okay, we're taking the plunge this week or next...I'm so excited! Lisa

My first batch of ordering, I got 26 chicks...all of them lived! Of course it was from a hatchery only 60 miles away. My next order was from another state, 450 miles away and I lost 3. Still pretty good for the travel.

I had 27 chicks and none of them died! They had been under stress, of course being shipped from Iowa and waiting a few hours at the Agricultural Office, but after lots of care and love, They lived and I won first place at the fair!