OUR HOMESTEAD
At Birch Acres Homestead, our passion for poultry runs deeper than simply raising birds—it is rooted in a commitment to preserving heritage breeds for future generations. As modern-day homesteaders, we believe that every breed carries a story worth protecting, and we have dedicated countless seasons to building breeding programs that honour both the history and future of these remarkable birds.
What began as a love for rare and heritage poultry has grown into a carefully managed breeding program focused on quality, health, and preservation. We intentionally maintain small breeding flocks, allowing us to give each bird the attention and care it deserves. This approach not only promotes the well-being of our animals but also enables us to focus on developing strong, healthy bloodlines that reflect the true characteristics of each breed.
Over the years, we have established multiple breeding pens and bloodlines within our favorite breeds and varieties. We believe that genetic diversity is one of the cornerstones of responsible stewardship. Through careful selection and seasons of planning, we develop and maintain our own lines created from quality foundation stock, ensuring the long-term health and vitality of our flocks.
When you purchase hatching eggs or live birds from us, you will receive stock backed by multiple proven bloodlines, which have been curated to strengthen the diversity and resilience of their own breeding programs. Please note that not every breed or variety will be available every season.
Preservation is more than a word to us—it guides every decision we make. Our breeding program places each breed's heritage at the forefront while striving to meet the Standard of Perfection whenever possible, including the varieties that have yet to receive official recognition. Whether we are working with Marans, Ameraucanas, Bresse, Silverudd's Blue, or our other heritage breeds, our goal remains the same: to protect and improve these breeds while remaining true to their intended characteristics.
The health of our flock is equally important. In 2023, we implemented an enhanced biosecurity program and further strengthened those protocols in 2026. As part of our commitment to responsible breeding, we conduct flock health testing bi-annually and will continue this practice for as long as we raise poultry. Our testing program includes screening for Marek's Disease, Mycoplasma Gallisepticum (MG), Mycoplasma Synoviae (MS), and Avian Leukosis Virus (ALV). By maintaining rigorous health standards, we aim to protect not only our own birds but also the flocks of fellow poultry enthusiasts across Canada.
Throughout the breeding season, we offer hatching eggs shipped Canada-wide, along with day-old chicks and limited numbers of started pullets available for local pickup. We begin test hatching late February and often have chicks available early in the season. From time to time, we also offer breeding adults, cockerels, and ready-to-lay pullets.
Quality begins long before eggs leave the farm. We do not release hatching eggs until our breeding pens consistently achieve fertility rates of 90 percent or higher. Fertility checks are performed each week, ensuring that customers receive eggs from productive, proven breeding groups.
As active members of the American Poultry Association and several poultry breeder and fancier organizations, we remain committed to continuous learning and responsible stewardship of the breeds we love. We believe preservation breeding is not just about today—it is about ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate these historic breeds as much as we do.
The foundation of our flock is built upon patience, purpose, and a deep respect for the birds in our care. Every season brings new lessons, new opportunities, and the continued responsibility of preserving these breeds for those who will come after us. We are honored to share that journey with fellow poultry keepers across Canada and look forward to helping you build and strengthen your own flock.
Raised with care, shared with purpose.
The Birch Acres Family