Last year I didn't hatch any dorkings because I planned on buying chicks this year (to add new bloodline). I have purchased several chicks from a well know hatchary and everyone of them died within few days....they did replace them but then again...withing 3 days- they all died too. I have been doing chicks for some years now. Here is the funny thing, I have gotten other breeds from locally and not lost a one...I have a brooder full for chicks and not lost many....just can't seem to raise dorking chicks. Anyways my rooster hits 3 years old this year and I lost most of my hens to old age- I love to get more but I don't want to get hatchary. I'm not blaming the hatchary....it maybe just the travel distance, time of year, or something. (yes I did treat them for stress once the arrived). I don't mind even just adding roosters because I'm not looking to breed....I just love the way they look....sort of game like but without the gamebird attitude.
I live in Raeford, NC
