A banner outside the Tractor Supply Co. store in Iron Mountain advertised they have chicks in stock this week. It can offer a little stress reduction during the day to stop in and listen to the cheeps and peeps from the fuzzy hatchlings.

But those thinking it might be cute to get the kids some live chicks, ducklings or even a bunny for their Easter basket should reconsider — for the animals’ sake.

Chicks, ducklings and rabbits each present their own unique issues in terms of care needs. They grow quickly, and most households are ill-suited for providing proper accommodations.

They can be messy. They might not be all that cuddly once they mature; ducks, in particular, can be aggressive. In some municipalities, they’re illegal to keep or will require a permit.

And in the North Woods they’ll face a number of predators looking to pick off a plump rabbit, duck or chicken should the opportunity arise. So having them outdoors is a risk.

Mostly, though, the main hazard these animals face is their humans will tire of them and decide they’ve got to go.

Local shelters often end up with these unwanted Easter additions, further stressing already thin resources. Grown ducks have been dumped at local lakes, where they become easy prey or succumb to the elements — most domestic duck varieties are unable to fly more than a few feet, as they were developed for meat or eggs production and thus are too heavy to migrate when winter sets in.

Like dogs and cats, rabbits require a 10- to 12-year ownership commitment, experts say.

In truth, no animal should be acquired on impulse — and certainly not as an Easter decoration or live toy for the kids or grandkids.

Tractor Supply guards against such potential misuse of their young poultry by requiring a minimum purchase of four chicks or two ducklings — and the buyers must be age 18 or older.

The store also, of course, has plenty of equipment and supplies — even chicken toys — plus expertise for those who want to seriously get into raising domestic fowl or rabbits.

But if you’re not up to that level of commitment, do yourself — and the chicks, ducklings and rabbits — a favor: stick to the chocolate and marshmallow varieties this holiday. It may not be waistline-friendly, but it is the humane thing to do.