TamaraFarms eBay

[JFreeman]

I've seen some people buying fertile eggs on eBay, and it depends on the seller whether or not it is worth it. Has any one here ever bought eggs from TamaraFarms? I've looked at the reviews, but no one is writing any reviews on the hatch rates, I just see packed well, extra eggs, quick shipping, etc. I'm really wanting some Lavender Orpington hatching eggs, and the pictures Tamara has are beautiful.

Here's the eBay link:
http://www.ebay.com/usr/tamarafarm

 

[Michael Apple]

The problem with purchasing hatching eggs is you have no idea what the quality of chicks will be. There is no way to tell if the breeding pair used to produce fertile eggs were on a nutritionally sufficient diet before fertilization, or whether they were free of diseases which could be vertically transmitted to the egg. Buying fertile eggs through the mail enhances the risk of rough handling and vibration which ruptures the air sac in the egg. The egg may look fine on the outside upon arrival, but will not hatch.

 

[JFreeman]

I see. So it's a crap shoot even if the eggs are fertile. Is it worth buying eggs in your opinion?

 

[Michael Apple]

I see. So it's a crap shoot even if the eggs are fertile. Is it worth buying eggs in your opinion?

To me it isn't. Buying local chicks, or from reputable hatcheries where shipping distance isn't too far is what I prefer. If you want to incubate some eggs from some of your own birds, you'll be able to ensure breeders are disease free and supplemented adequately during breeding season for healthy, fertile eggs. If there's someone local, you can observe their stock and ask questions about their practices. That way you could acquire hatching eggs from them without the risks of shipping and questionable breeding practices.

 

[JFreeman]

Understandably noted. Thank you for answering my questions. I value the opinions of more experienced members.