Day Old Sexed Chicks, Guaranteed Pullets | Magill Grain Store
What Are Day Old Chicks?
Day old sexed chicks are newly hatched chicks that have had their gender identified shortly after hatching, so you know you're buying pullets (female, future egg-layers) rather than an unsexed, random batch. For backyard keepers focused on eggs rather than raising cockerels, sexed chicks remove the guesswork.
At Magill Grain Store, our sexed chicks are supplied fresh and handled with care from hatch to pickup, giving your new flock the healthiest possible start.
Why Choose Chicks Over Unsexed (Straight Run)
Unsexed or “straight run” chicks are sold as a random mixed batch roughly half pullets, half cockerels and cost less as a result. Sexed chicks cost a little more per bird, but you know exactly what you're getting: pullets that will grow into layers, without the extra work of rehoming or raising cockerels you didn't plan for.
Sexing accuracy is very high, though not guaranteed to be exact most hatcheries and suppliers quote accuracy in the high 90% range rather than 100%.
Caring for Newly Hatched Chicks
Brooder Setup
A draft-free brooder box with clean bedding, kept at a consistent temperature, is essential for the first few weeks.
Heat Source
Day old chicks need supplementary heat typically starting around 35°C in week one and gradually reduced as they feather up.
Why Buy Day Old Chicks From Magill Grain Store
Locally Supplied, Handled With Care
Our chicks are sourced and handled to minimise stress before they reach your brooder.
Everything to Get Started, In One Place
Starter feed, feeders, drinkers and heat lamps are all available in-store alongside your chicks.
Local Advice for First Time Keepers
New to raising chicks? Call (08) 8331 8159we'll walk you through brooder setup, feeding and what to expect in the first few weeks.
Trusted by South Australian Flock Keepers Since 1998
Decades of experience supplying livestock and feed to backyard keepers across Adelaide's eastern suburbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “sexed” mean for day old chicks?+
A sexed chick has had its gender identified shortly after hatching, letting buyers choose specifically pullets (female, future layers) rather than a random unsexed batch.
Are sexed chicks 100% guaranteed to be female?+
Sexing accuracy is very high but not absolute typically in the high 90% range. Ask our team about the accuracy on current stock.
How do I care for day old sexed chicks when I get them home?+
They need a warm, draft-free brooder, a heat source (around 35°C in week one), chick starter feed and constant clean water.
When will my sexed chicks start laying eggs?+
Most breeds start laying between 18 and 22 weeks of age, depending on breed and season.
Is day old sexed chicks always in stock?+
Availability depends on hatching schedules. Call (08) 8331 8159 to check current stock and breeds available.
What breed are the sexed chicks you sell?+
Breed availability varies by batch ask our team for current breed options and their laying characteristics.
Do I need grit for day old chicks?+
No, grit isn't needed until chicks move onto grain or start free-ranging. Starter crumble alone is sufficient in the early weeks.
What if I want a rooster instead of a pullet?+
Sexed chicks are specifically sold as pullets. If you're after a rooster, these are available on request rather than held as standard stock call (08) 8331 8159 to check availability.