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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-straight-run

What does it mean to buy 'straight run' chicks?

A mix of male and female chicks, so you may end up with roosters.

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  1. All the chicks are female
  2. A mix of male and female chicks ✔
  3. Chicks that already lay eggs

Why: Straight run means a mix of males and females. NC State Extension warns against it unless you have a good home for unwanted roosters, which can be hard to find.

Huh, didn't know that: Cornell says it is better to pay extra to buy only female chicks.

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Why did the rooster run away? He was chicken.
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References

Answer: A mix of male and female chicks. Straight run means a mix of males and females. NC State Extension warns against it unless you have a good home for unwanted roosters, which can be hard to find.

  1. NC State Extension: Keeping Garden Chickens in North Carolina content.ces.ncsu.edu/keeping-garden-chickens-in-north-carolina
    do not purchase ”straight run,” mixed male and female chicks
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Cornell Cooperative Extension Warren County: Backyard Chickens warren.cce.cornell.edu/agriculture/backyard-chickens
    It is better to pay extra to purchase only females.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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