Thinking about getting some chicks this spring? It’s not too early to start considering what kind you’d like to keep—you may even be able to reserve some at your hatchery.
For those of you who still haven’t quite decided on the right breeds to keep, this chick selector tool from Murray McMurray Hatchery can be a big help.
Using the chick selector is easy. Just choose important characteristics from the drop-down menus on the left side of the screen. Filter breeds by:
- Chick type.
- Egg color.
- Egg size.
- Egg production.
- Meat production.
- Availability.
- Heat tolerance.
- Cold tolerance.
- Disposition.
- Approximate weeks to maturity.
- Free-range suitability.
- Skin color.
- Comb type.
- Likelihood of sitting on eggs.
- Bird size.
- Exotic classification.
- Leg style.
- Head style.
Once you have narrowed down the list, check off the breeds that you are interested in and click on “Show only selected breeds” to compare your favorites side by side.
Whether your interest is eggs, meat, or just great-looking chickens, you’re covered! Great resource from a great hatchery.
Helpful Resources
Chicken Breeds
Our own guide to favorite chicken breeds, covering history, uses, temperament, health, and pros and cons.
Pick-a-Chick
Another great resource for choosing a breed of chicken.
Homestead on the Range 