500 Chickens Fostering and Adopting

5 Steps to Chick Fostering and Adopting

1. Sidestreams buys day old female chicks. We make brooder boxes using plastic totes with lights, feed, and watering dish. You may rent a fully equipped brooder bin with chick food for $20.
2. We show families how to care for 4-5 “foster chicks.” Main things are feeding, watering, changing bedding, and keeping them warm.
3. New chicken keepers prepare their coops (build or buy one).
4. 5-6 weeks after fostering chicks, they will be regathered and “adopted,” into their permanent homes.
   1. You have the choice to adopt your foster chicks or let someone else to adopt.
   2. If you choose not to foster chicks, you can still purchase chickens on adoption day for $5 per bird.
5. Hens lay eggs at about 6 months.