Cackle Hatchery

[orcasislandchickens]

Washington state near the Canadian border is farther away than you are, and I am on a small island too, which always slows down shipping.

I also worried about the August heat, but mine were fine. Once you are in the position of shipping INMHO you are at the mercy of the fates, it isn't just about distance.

I'd buy the birds you realy want. The minimum in spring (for body warmth) is 25. That is like twelve hens. You'll be okay even if you lose a couple. I'd also stick with the post office they ship chicks all the time and realy do have procedures in place and do a good job.

If you want to increase the odds for your new chicks making it I'd put my effort into new home preparations.

Have fresh chick starter, feeders and waterers ready (extras mean they won't have to fight each other for food and water) Rubbermade tubs (or whatever your brooder setup is) with shavings- a couple of layers of paper towels over top (just for a day or two untill you know they are eating and know what food is ), and the heat lamps setup a day ahead of time ( temp. checked at chick height with thermometer) so everything is ready and cozy for them when you bring them home. Cackle says to use warm water with a little sugar for the first day only, plain warm water after that. Read the online chick care sheet.

King's Call on the BYC has bantam orpingtons also, and is, I think, in Washington. You might contact them. Also have you joined the orpington club yet? Join and see if there is a member near you that breeds the orpington bantams (Then you could pick up).