Whether you're starting your first flock or adding to an existing one, here’s how to confidently select healthy, vigorous chicks from Tractor Supply or similar farm stores.

Know Before You Go

Before walking into the store, have a few basics figured out:

• Check local ordinances: Make sure you’re allowed to keep chickens in your town or development. Some areas restrict the number of birds or prohibit roosters.

• Know your setup: Have your brooder, heat source, feed, and water ready to go. Chicks need immediate warmth and care when you bring them home.

• Research breeds: Many Tractor Supply locations sell mixed bins labeled by broad categories like “Pullets,” “Straight Run,” or “Assorted Bantams.” If you have specific breed goals (egg color, temperament, size), know what you’re looking for in advance.

Understanding the Labels

• Pullets: These are supposed to be young females, and Tractor Supply usually sources from hatcheries with a 90% accuracy rate. Mistakes do happen, though, so if you absolutely can’t keep roosters, be prepared.

• Straight Run: This means the chicks are not sexed—half are typically roosters.

• Bantams: These are miniature chickens that often mature later and lay smaller eggs. They're fun and beautiful but not ideal for everyone.

Signs of a Healthy Chick

When peering into the bin, look for chicks that show the following:

• Bright, alert eyes

• Clean, fluffy down (not wet or crusty)

• Active behavior (they should be walking, pecking, and chirping)

• Straight legs and toes

• Clean, unpasted vents (no buildup of droppings around the rear)

If chicks are huddled lethargically in a corner, have crusty eyes, drooping wings, or trouble walking, avoid that bin. Those are red flags of stress or illness.

Don’t be shy about asking an associate to help you pick active chicks. Most will gladly scoop up a few so you can get a closer look.

Handling the Chick Selection Process

• Ask where the chicks came from. Most Tractor Supply chicks come from large hatcheries like Hoover’s Hatchery or Privett Hatchery. You can look up their breed offerings online to get a better idea of what you're buying.

• Take a minute to observe behavior. A healthy chick is curious and steady on its feet. It should not be excessively sleepy or panicked.

• Avoid impulse buys. It’s tempting to grab one of everything, but mixing chicks of vastly different sizes or ages can lead to problems once you get them home.

What About Breed Identification?

Chicks in Tractor Supply bins are often assorted, especially early in the season. Staff may not know the exact breeds available, and chicks may be mislabeled. If knowing the breed is important to you, consider buying from a hatchery that offers sexed and labeled breeds—or learn to recognize common chick characteristics such as leg color, feather patterns, or comb type.

Bringing Chicks Home Safely

• Transport them in a warm, well-ventilated box. Tractor Supply usually provides boxes, but you can bring your own lined with a towel.

• Don’t make any stops on the way home. Get chicks into their brooder as soon as possible.

• Hydrate first. Dip each chick’s beak in warm water with electrolytes when placing them in the brooder. Then show them where the food is.

Pros and Cons of Buying Chicks from Tractor Supply

Pros:

• Instant gratification—no waiting for shipping

• No shipping stress for chicks

• Good seasonal sales and starter supplies

Cons:

• Limited breed information

• Mixed age or sex bins

• Higher risk of mislabeling or mild illness due to crowding

Final Thoughts

Buying chicks from Tractor Supply can be a rewarding, affordable way to start your flock—if you know what to look for. Take your time, choose alert, vigorous chicks, and prepare their brooder before you bring them home. With a little planning and observation, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the excitement of raising chicks right from day one.