Chick Day is a Tradition at Brenda's Main Street Feed

It's finally spring in Durham, and the chicks have arrived too.

Starting today, Brenda's Main Street Feed will be selling their famous baby chicks, an annual tradition that started 30 years ago, according to owner Brenda Eddy.

"It's fun. Some people just come in to look at the baby chicks, bring their kids in," says Eddy. 

Make no mistake, these baby chicks will grow up to be the real McCoy — egg laying chickens that require, at the very least, the regular attention of even a wanna-be farmer.

"They're not Easter pets," says Eddy, who normally sells the chicks six-to-an-order.

The chicks — which come in six different breeds and are priced between $4-$4.50 each — are bought from Murray McMurray Hatchery, located in Iowa. 

"I order all pullets (a hen for those who don't know). A lot of people don't want a rooster, or in Middletown you can't have a rooster in a residential area," Eddy says.

With care, the chickens should start laying eggs around September, she says.

Of course, buyers should be aware that young chickens need a place to stay — otherwise known as a chicken coup — and depending on the weather, heat to stay warm.

Eddy has purchased 300 chicks for the Chick Days event, which runs from March 20-23. Stop by 58 Main Street, Durham, to visit or to get started.