Ensure you understand the specific needs of the poultry species you are acquiring (e.g., cold hardiness, required space per bird, lifespan, and whether roosters/drakes are permitted in your area).
Requirement | Key Questions to Ask the Seller | Documents to Verify |
Biosecurity/NPIP | Does the seller's flock participate in the National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP)? (Crucial for interstate transport and disease control in the US). | NPIP Status Documentation (Ask for the certificate number). |
Vaccinations | Have the birds been vaccinated for common poultry diseases, such as Marek’s Disease? | Vaccination Records for the flock. |
Flock Health | Do the birds show signs of illness (e.g., coughing, wheezing, watery eyes, limping, excessive feather loss)? | Observe the entire flock for active, normal behavior and bright combs/wattles. |
Parasite Control | When was the flock last checked/treated for internal and external parasites (lice, mites, worms)? | Deworming/Parasite Treatment Records. |
Local Ordinances: What specific local city/county ordinances apply to poultry (limits on hens, restrictions on roosters, distance from property lines)?
Housing: What type of coop is provided? What are the space requirements per bird for the species (square footage in the coop and run)?
Feed and Care: What brand and type of feed are they currently receiving (e.g., layer pellets, starter feed)? Are they provided with grit/calcium supplements?
Age/Production | If purchasing hens, what is their exact age and current egg-laying status? (Note: Peak egg production is usually 1-2 years). | Documentation of the bird's hatch date or age. |
Source/Provenance | Was the bird hatched on-site, or was it brought in from a hatchery or feed store? | Helps track potential disease vectors and genetic history. |
Transportation | Will the seller provide an appropriate, ventilated container (crate or box) for safe transport? | Confirmation the container is clean and secure.