Most farm supply stores carry chicks in the spring, and sometimes they can even special order whatever breed you want. Or for a much wider selection (available in summer and fall too), you can order chicks from a mail-order hatchery. When chicks hatch, they have enough food reserves left from the egg that they do not have to eat or drink for several days. This makes it possible for hatcheries to ship day-old chicks in the mail. When the chicks arrive at the post office, someone there will call you to come pick them up. It's great fun, because the loud peeping of the chicks causes everyone nearby to smile as you carry them out.
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Cheryl Long, editor in chief