Murray McMurray is definitely a legitimate hatchery; one of the oldest and largest in the nation. I've ordered from them on a number of occasions and have been happy with their birds and service. But whether or not you order from them, their "chick selector" is still a useful tool for determining the best breeds for you. I used to raise Black Silkies and they are adorable little birds; sweet, gentle, friendly, and funny. My children loved them and made lap pets of them. For sheer egg production, I would suggest Black Sex Links (Black Stars), which are hardy and friendly, egg laying machines. I've raised them for years (along with dozens of other breeds and hybrids), and they have been my best layers, consistently churning out more than 300 eggs per hen per year. Whatever breeds or hybrids you end up getting, good luck with your flock.
