Best place to purchase chicks & what to expect?

[bwahk]

I'm looking to purchase some babies from a hatchery ... but I've heard the mortality rate can be rediculous. Any recommendations? I'm in CA, perhaps there's a local hatchery I can order from?

When they arrive, what care will they need?

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

IMO- the mortality rate isn't really the fault of the hatchery- but more the post office and circumstances surrounding shipping. Sure, there's always the chance that some chicks will hatch week or suffer problems that only allow then to live a few days, but that happens when I hatch from my own eggs at home. You could see if there's a TSC (Tractor Supply Co) close to you. They've got their annual "Chick Days" going on right now. At least that way you can look at the chicks to give a better indication of how healthy/active they are. Or, search Craigslist for some local breeders. If you do go the hatchery route, Ideal is in TX, which isn't that far from CA. They also have a $25 minimum in of a 25 CHICK minimum. Good luck
Nikki

 

[OEGB100]

Yeah mortality rate is ridiculous. I got 50 old english game bantam from ideal and 7 died within the first three days, I got reinbursed no problem with that. Also on wednesday I recieved another order from cackle and already los 13 out of the 50, also got refund. I dont know whos fault it is but it is really sad. So my best recommendation is to expect dad one because there will be. Refund is only for the first days only after that pray!

 

[bwahk]

Sigh. That's what I thought.

 

[bwahk]

See the thing is I'd rather get in person.... but... the hens I want are blue andaluasian, but I can't find any locally.

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

Try to find a TSC, alot of times they'll add what your wanting to their next order if the hatchery they're ordering from offers them!
Nikki

 

[bwahk]

Awesome, thank you.

 

[bwahk]

Awesome, thank you.

 

[jnntefend]

Hey where is this amazing ideal chicken hatchery in Texas? Do you have a link?

 

[stefan333]

I'd check TSC first, but be aware that if you order them from a hatchery it might take a couple of months til they're available.