If you're dreaming about collecting fresh eggs from your own backyard, buying laying hens for sale online is one of the easiest ways to get started. Thanks to trusted online sellers like Ayla Backyard Poultry, you don’t need to visit a farm or hatchery in person. But as a beginner, it’s natural to have questions. Is it safe to buy hens online? What breed should you pick? How do you know you’re getting healthy, quality birds?



This guide is written to help you navigate the world of online poultry shopping. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing the right hens to making sure your purchase is safe, secure, and successful.



Why People Buy Laying Hens Online

Shopping for laying hens online offers many benefits, especially for beginners:



Convenience – You can explore many breeds and place your order from home.



Wider Variety – Online stores often offer more options than local farms.



Delivered to You – No need to travel or transport the birds yourself.



Information Access – Trusted sellers provide breed details, egg production rates, and care tips right on the product page.



Whether you’re starting a small backyard flock or adding to your existing coop, buying online can save you time and give you access to healthy, well-raised hens.



Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Laying Hens Online

Step 1: Know Why You Want Laying Hens

Before you start shopping, think about your goals. Ask yourself:



Do I want eggs every day?



Am I looking for hens that are friendly with kids?



Do I live in a hot or cold climate?



How much space do I have?



Your answers will help you pick the best breed and the right number of hens.



Step 2: Learn the Best Laying Hen Breeds for Beginners

Some breeds are easier to care for and more productive than others. Here are a few top choices:



ISA Brown: Lays up to 300 brown eggs per year; very gentle and beginner-friendly.



Rhode Island Red: Tough, cold-hardy birds with great egg-laying ability.



Leghorn: High energy and excellent white egg producers.



Australorp: Calm and beautiful with great winter laying performance.



Golden Comet: Hybrid breed known for early maturity and high output.



You can find these and other excellent options in online poultry stores. Always read the breed description to see if they fit your needs.



Step 3: Understand What “Point-of-Lay” Means

Many sellers will list their hens as “point-of-lay.” This means the hens are around 16–20 weeks old and will begin laying eggs very soon. Point-of-lay hens are ideal for beginners because:



You don’t have to wait long for eggs.



You skip the delicate chick-raising stage.



You get healthy hens with established routines.



Be sure to confirm the age when you’re browsing listings. Point-of-lay hens are the best option if you’re new to chicken keeping.



Step 4: Choose a Trusted Online Seller

Not all online sellers are the same. A trusted seller like Ayla Backyard Poultry provides clear information, healthy birds, and safe shipping. When choosing where to buy from, look for these signs:



Detailed Product Descriptions: Includes breed name, age, egg-laying potential, and temperament.



Healthy Stock: Birds are vaccinated and raised in clean environments.



Clear Policies: Return, refund, or replacement policy in case of shipping issues.



Customer Support: Available for questions before and after the sale.



Avoid websites with no contact info, unclear terms, or poor grammar. A professional site shows that the seller cares about their birds and customers.



Step 5: Understand Shipping and Delivery

Shipping live birds may sound risky, but it’s a common and safe practice when done correctly. Most reputable sellers use express shipping with live-animal packaging designed for comfort and ventilation.



Here’s what you can expect:



Shipping Time: Usually 1–2 days via overnight or express services.



Delivery Conditions: Birds are shipped in small, safe boxes with breathing holes.



Pickup Location: Sometimes the post office calls you to pick up the hens to reduce travel time.



Tracking: Sellers provide a tracking number so you can follow your order.



When your hens arrive, gently remove them from the box and place them in a quiet coop with food and water.



How to Prepare Your Home for New Laying Hens

Once you’ve ordered your hens, it’s time to get ready for their arrival. Your hens will need a secure, clean, and comfortable place to live.