Backyard Box Farm

 

Driving through downtown Duvall today we saw a big fluorescent ‘CHICKS’ sign in the window of Rockin E Feeds. The promise of puddles of cute drew us into the shop for a closer look. Chuck at Rockin E had a huge steer trough full of dozens of cute fluffy pullets. All napping, cozy and warm, in the glow of their red heat lamp next to a popping crackling woodstove. “Amerucanas and Rhode Island Reds this week” he told us. Pulling out his spreadsheet of chick orders, he showed us the breeds he’ll be getting in over the next several weeks; Buff Orphingtons, Cuckoo Marans, Barred Rocks and more.

We’ve been waiting for the right opportunity to purchase what will become our flock of laying hens this year, armed with a list of breeds we were excited about; Production Reds, a crossbreed known for their excellent brown egg laying abilities and quick maturity. Amerucanas, with their fluffy cheeks and pale blue eggs. Dominiques, a heritage breed we are already familiar with and admired for their free ranging abilities and personalities. And Rhode Island Reds, famous for prolific egg production.

Well here we were with several dozen babies of our favorite breeds in front of us. The price was right and we felt good supporting a local business, so we left Rockin E with a box full of 14 Amerucanas and Rhode Island Reds.

They are now all tucked in to a more modest feed trough in our mudroom, where the dryer and geothermal heater keeps the room warm and toasty. They’ll live there eating tasty locally milled chick starter for 4-6 weeks until they can gradually start living outside.