Is there a downside to ordering chicks mail order?

[ONSTAD1]

I know going "local" is great, but there seems to be a better selection of breeds to pick from online. Not to mention I can order 5 different breeds at the same time (first five for me). Being a super newbie, if I bought local not sure I would know if I was getting the breed intended... "pure" breeds a big deal or "mutt" chickens an OK thing if all I really want is eggs and compost?

thoughts?

Mo

 

[Gardeningmama]

You're where I was back at the end of winter. I was (and still am) a newbie. But you won't always be, and I can tell you from recent experience, that I completely regret my hatchery order. Don't get me wrong, there are good hatcheries out there with excellent quality birds, but not for the most part. Stromberg's is one that has a nice reputation. I ordered from your run of the mill hatchery. Example: I ordered two silver laced wyandottes, I got Hatchery Wyandottes, mainly black birds with white streaks. If you don't know what I'm talking about look one up. My silkies had 4 toes on one foot, five on the other, feathers on some feet, none on others. Ordered all pullets, ended up with 2 roosters. These things are typical of hatcheries, they breed for quantity not quality. You may think you only want eggs, as I did, but once you start seeing how beautiful well bred chickens are you'll want them. As far as variety goes have you checked out Craigslist yet? I'm on there everyday, the variety is there, and local too. Patience really will ensure that you have a beautiful flock. Not saying not to do it, just my opinion.