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some of this is....well, it just isn't true. me, for example, cannot buy adult birds. i am not allowed - to continue an organic program, i must be possession of the chicken by day two of life. there is no debate to be had. that doesn't mean i don't care about quality, nor am i frugal - - not that i even think being frugal is bad (in fact, often i think it's smart). because of this, i hatch. it's one of my two options (the other being buying day old chicks, which i've never done)
your decision to sell only adult birds is in no way a reflection of the market or customer base at large. it's a reflection of you, your goals, and you having control over what your name is attached to. and that is cool. sincerely.
just wanted to point out your misinterpretation of the market at large.
edited for typos - - probably still missed a couple. eh.
In your particular Govt cert "Organic" deal I can understand that and your point, but as far as the misinterpretation of the market, I do beg to differ. there are several markets, some where folks won't pay more than hatchery $$ and require chicks and hatchings eggs because of the mindset in this market, regardless and often couldn't nor posses the ability to ascertain the quality difference. but they want champagne on a beer budget.
Then there are the more knowledgable forums and markets where Professional poultry folks know what they want, know what to ask and what to do, and can actualy afford decent quality stock, and don't blink an eye at $200.00 in just shipping charges alone then there's the cost of the trio's and Quads.
That is my point, search in the proper areas of peoples intrest, do your homework, have the means to do what you want, know the difference and go with your experience not your gut. I have never had a bad experience in buying or selling birds.............. why ??? because you have to do things right.... from the start.
i think "priorities" and "quality" are two relative things. my priorities are clearly different than yours for example. that doesn't mean either of ours is "bad" or "wrong" - - and i'm sure we could debate each other's style (for lack of a better term) all day and still get no where.
i think if someone is looking for chickens for their family to have eggs and/or meat, it doesn't make sense to worry about correct form, feathering, leg colors, and the likes. what does make sense is they have a friendly [small] flock of birds who lay lots of eggs and/or provide decent table dressing. i respect their motivation for wanting to more self reliant and healthier. i also respect them for holding true to their wants/needs and not getting caught up in something they don't really care for (form, feathering, etc).
i also, at the same time, respect the true chicken fashionista for their dedication to perfecting, or maintaining the already perfected, breed of their choice. i think they play an important role - - one that doesn't need to be shrugged off or dismissed (nor given too much credit).
i think you said it best:
...do your homework, have the means to do what you want, know the difference and go with your experience not your gut....
whatever that may be.
