looking for best hatchery to get chicks

[junipercloud113420]

I am looking for the best hatchery to get new chicks. I bought some chicks before from Mcmurray hatchery and they got sick and some died, now I am looking for the best hatchery to get new chicks

 

[FrostRanger]

I've had a great experience with Meyer. I lost one due to shipping stress but the remaining 7 are doing very well and are super friendly. What were the symptoms of the chicks you lost? What was their diet and did they have access to chick grit (particularly if they were on pine shavings) ?

 

[junipercloud113420]

I've had a great experience with Meyer. I lost one due to shipping stress but the remaining 7 are doing very well and are super friendly. What were the symptoms of the chicks you lost? What was their diet and did they have access to chick grit (particularly if they were on pine shavings) ?

they were eating chick crumbles they weren't on pine shavings and they didn't have access to chick grit

 

[FrostRanger]

they were eating chick crumbles they weren't on pine shavings and they didn't have access to chick grit

What were their symptoms?

 

[junipercloud113420]

lethargy and then after a few days they just died

 

[Cinnamon Roll]

I’ve had good experiences with Meyer, McMurray, and Privett.

In general you’ll get the healthiest chicks from the hatchery that is closest to you. Shipping is a huge stress on chicks, especially in the heat of summer.

 

[FrostRanger]

lethargy and then after a few days they just died

Sounds like shipping stress. It happens from time to time. The process of being shipped is just too much for some chicks. Making sure their area is quiet and free of stressors and giving them electrolyte water for their first day can help, but it's going to happen every now and then no matter where you you order from

 

[gimmie birdies]

Meyer is having a sale- 30% assorted lay hens, all female (5+ diff breeds.). also ask for a free meal maker female, and ask for one free flock protector male to save it, or give it away. 15 chicks +the other 2 will ship for $15 shipping. (if you order 10 females plus 5 frypan bargains it will be even cheaper. but you might as well get 15 females) if you order 25 + the other 2 mentioned, shipping is $10.

 

[gimmie birdies]

I dip beaks in egg yolk water when they arrive. I don't use any wood shavings, so they don't eat it. I use second hand placemats, or cloth napkins second hand, then when soiled I roll up and toss them. (when very young.)

 

[Sally PB]

I've only ordered chicks once. It was from Mt. Healthy, and if I order chicks again, it will be from them.

The shipping time was in the 2-day time/distance. They got to me the next morning. I'm sure the quick delivery helped.