Murray McMurray Hatchery - Your Flock's Next Home
Bringing new life to your backyard can be a truly heartwarming experience, and for many, that journey begins with choosing the right place to get those feathery additions. Folks who raise chickens and ducks often share stories about where their beloved birds come from, and how those first few days of a chick's life can really set the tone for a happy, healthy flock. It's a bit like welcoming new family members, you know, so picking a good source matters a lot.
When you're thinking about adding to your feathered family, whether it's just a few more layers or a whole new group of ducklings, where you order from makes a real difference. There are quite a few places out there that send baby birds right to your door, and each one has its own way of doing things, its own special touches. People often talk about their experiences, the good and the, well, not-so-good, because everyone wants their little ones to arrive safe and sound, and then grow up to be amazing members of the yard. It's actually a very common topic among those who keep birds.
This discussion often turns to specific names in the world of hatcheries, and one that comes up a fair bit is Murray McMurray Hatchery. Many people have tales to tell about their orders, what arrived, how the birds turned out, and the whole process of getting new chicks or ducklings. It seems people really like to compare notes, and that's totally understandable, since it helps others decide where to place their trust and their money for their next flock expansion. So, we'll take a closer look at some of these shared experiences.
Table of Contents
- What Makes a Good Order Experience?
- Thinking About Murray McMurray Hatchery's Packing
- Why Pick a Certain Hatchery?
- Finding a Close Murray McMurray Hatchery
- Are Started Pullets from Murray McMurray Hatchery a Good Idea?
- Considering Different Breeds from Murray McMurray Hatchery
- What About Those Surprise Chicks?
- Ameraucana Birds from Murray McMurray Hatchery
What Makes a Good Order Experience?
It's interesting how people remember their bird orders. For instance, someone mentioned their order from Murray McMurray Hatchery back in May of 2014, and how it included Australorps and Dark Cornish birds. The person couldn't stop talking about how truly wonderful those Australorps were. They felt those birds were just fantastic, and they'd say all sorts of good things about them, like they were really pleased with how they turned out. This kind of positive feedback is, you know, pretty common when a bird keeper finds a breed that really clicks with their expectations and their backyard setup. It's all about getting those healthy, happy birds that thrive in your care, and that's a very big part of what makes a good experience for anyone looking to grow their flock, so it seems.
The arrival of new birds is a moment filled with a lot of hope and a little bit of worry, too. When a package of live chicks shows up, you really want them to be in good shape. One person shared how Murray McMurray Hatchery sent their chicks with a big heat pack, which is a common way to keep the little ones warm during their trip. They also added six male chicks, specifically for warmth, which is a practice some hatcheries use to help keep the other chicks cozy and comfortable on their journey. This attention to detail in the packing, like providing extra warmth, can make a real difference in how the chicks handle the travel, and that's something people definitely notice and appreciate when their order arrives. It really speaks to the care involved.
Even with the best efforts, sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. The same person who spoke about the careful packing also mentioned that the only chick that didn't make it, the only one that was dead on arrival, was a free surprise chick. This particular chick was described as some kind of bluish Polish. It's a bit of a bummer, of course, when any chick doesn't make it, but the fact that it was the free one, and not one of the ordered birds, might make it a little less disappointing in a way. This kind of situation, where a free bonus chick doesn't survive, is something that, you know, can happen with live animal shipments, and it's something people often talk about when sharing their experiences with different suppliers. It gives a pretty clear picture of what to expect sometimes.
Thinking About Murray McMurray Hatchery's Packing
When you're waiting for those tiny chirping packages, the way they're put together for the trip is, like, a really big deal. People often look at how much care goes into making sure the little birds are safe and sound during their journey. For example, the mention of a large heat pack along with several male chicks to provide extra warmth really shows a specific approach to shipping. This isn't just about throwing some birds in a box; it's about trying to create a cozy, warm environment for them while they're on the move. That kind of consideration for the animals' comfort during transit is, arguably, what sets some places apart. It's a pretty important part of the whole process, you know, making sure they arrive ready to thrive in their new home.
The idea of adding "warmth males" is a method some hatcheries use, and it's quite interesting. These are often extra male chicks, sometimes of a common breed, that are included in the box not for sale, but simply to generate body heat. This helps keep the temperature inside the shipping container at a comfortable level for all the chicks, especially in cooler weather. It's a practical solution to a challenge that, in some respects, comes with sending live, very young animals through the mail. This attention to the physical needs of the chicks during their travel, using methods like these, can really influence a customer's overall feeling about a hatchery, including Murray McMurray Hatchery, and whether they'd order again. It shows a level of thought, you know, for the welfare of the birds.
So, when a customer receives their order and sees that the packing was done with such thought, it can build a lot of trust. Even if there's a small issue, like a free surprise chick not making it, the care taken with the rest of the shipment can really stand out. It suggests that the hatchery, in this case, Murray McMurray Hatchery, is genuinely trying to do its best to get the birds to their new homes in good condition. This kind of practical care, focusing on the basics of safe transport, is what many people look for when they're choosing a supplier for their flock. It's a pretty straightforward way to show you care about the animals and the customer's experience, which is important, obviously.
Why Pick a Certain Hatchery?
People often wonder, "Why did I order from that particular hatchery?" It's a question many of us ask ourselves when we're planning to get new birds. The reasons can be quite varied, but often they boil down to practical considerations. For instance, one person explained that last winter, they were looking for a hatchery that was closer to where they lived. And, you know, Murray McMurray Hatchery happened to fit that bill. Being geographically closer can sometimes mean shorter travel times for the chicks, which, in a way, might reduce stress on the little ones during shipping. That's a pretty big factor for many people who are concerned about the well-being of their future flock members. It's a very common reason to pick one place over another, really.
Beyond just how close a hatchery is, the cost of getting the birds to your door plays a big part in the decision-making process. The same person mentioned that Murray McMurray Hatchery's shipping was cheaper, and they actually saved thirty dollars. Now, that's a pretty significant amount of money when you're thinking about the total cost of your order. Saving money on shipping means you can potentially put those funds towards more birds, or perhaps better feed, or even some new equipment for your coop. It's a practical benefit that, for many, makes a hatchery like Murray McMurray Hatchery a very attractive option. Everyone likes to save a little cash where they can, especially when it comes to something like expanding a hobby. It's just smart, you know.
Sometimes, the decision to order from a specific hatchery is also influenced by what you're already doing with your birds. One person talked about having ducks and how they got "addicted" to them, in a fun way, of course. So, they were looking to get even more ducks. When thinking about where to order, Murray McMurray Hatchery came to mind, again, because it was fairly close to where they lived. This shows how a good initial experience, or even just the convenience of location and shipping costs, can lead to repeat business. When you're happy with how things went the first time, or if it just makes good sense financially and logistically, you're pretty likely to go back to the same source for your next batch of feathered friends. It's kind of natural, isn't it?
Finding a Close Murray McMurray Hatchery
The idea of a hatchery being geographically near to you is, honestly, a pretty important consideration for many people. It's not just about the shipping cost, though that's certainly a factor. It's also about the travel time for those delicate little chicks or ducklings. The shorter the trip, the less stress they typically experience, which means they arrive in better shape, more ready to eat and drink and start their new lives. So, when someone says they chose Murray McMurray Hatchery because it was closer, that speaks to a real concern for the welfare of the birds. It's a practical choice that often aligns with wanting the best for your future flock members. It really is, you know, a big part of the decision.
Saving money on shipping, as was mentioned, can really sweeten the deal. Thirty dollars saved is not a small sum, especially when you're talking about a hobby that can, in some respects, add up quickly. This financial benefit makes a hatchery more appealing, especially for those who are on a budget or simply like to be smart with their spending. It shows that Murray McMurray Hatchery, in this instance, offered a competitive edge that directly benefited the customer's wallet. This kind of tangible saving can be a powerful motivator for choosing one supplier over another, and it's a very clear reason why someone might pick them. It's just good business sense, really, to offer value.
The thought process behind repeat orders often comes back to these initial positive experiences. If a hatchery provides good birds and a smooth, cost-effective shipping process, it builds trust and loyalty. The person who was "addicted" to ducks and wanted more, naturally gravitated back towards Murray McMurray Hatchery, partly because of its proximity. This kind of loyalty, where a customer returns because of a combination of convenience, cost savings, and good product, is, you know, the backbone of any successful business. It shows that the initial choice was a good one, and that the hatchery met their needs effectively, which is what everyone hopes for when they're spending their money on something they care about. It's a pretty clear indicator of satisfaction, actually.
Are Started Pullets from Murray McMurray Hatchery a Good Idea?
Getting started pullets can be a different kind of experience compared to ordering day-old chicks. One person decided to try ordering seven started pullets from Murray McMurray Hatchery. These birds are advertised as being between fifteen and twenty-two weeks old, which means they're much closer to laying eggs than tiny chicks. The idea was to add them to an existing flock. Now, integrating new birds into a group that's already established can be a bit of a process. You want to make sure everyone gets along and that the new birds settle in nicely without too much fuss. So, the age of these pullets, being older, could potentially make that integration a little smoother, as they're more developed and perhaps less fragile than very young chicks. It's a very practical choice for some, really.
The process of adding new birds to a current flock is something many backyard bird keepers think about carefully. When you bring in started pullets, like those from Murray McMurray Hatchery, you're hoping they'll fit right in and start contributing to the egg basket before too long. The fact that they're already a certain age, say fifteen to twenty-two weeks, gives you a pretty good idea of when you can expect them to begin laying. This can be a real advantage for someone who wants eggs sooner rather than later, or who just doesn't have the time or setup to raise chicks from day one. It's a way to skip some of the very early stages of bird raising, which for some people, you know, is a big plus. It makes things a little easier, certainly.
Comparing experiences across different suppliers is also a common thing to do. The same person who ordered from Murray McMurray Hatchery also got ten birds from Cackle Hatchery around the same time. They had a similar experience overall, which is interesting, suggesting some consistency in the general process of ordering and receiving birds. However, there was one notable difference: one of the pullets from Cackle Hatchery turned out to be a rooster. This happens sometimes, even with birds that are supposed to be hens, and it's something bird keepers often encounter. Despite this, the person said they would order from Cackle Hatchery again, which shows that a single unexpected rooster isn't necessarily a deal-breaker if the rest of the experience was good. It's a pretty common issue, honestly, in the world of poultry. It just goes to show, you know, that sometimes you get a surprise.
Considering Different Breeds from Murray McMurray Hatchery
When you're thinking about adding new birds, the variety of breeds available is, like, a pretty big deal. Some hatcheries have minimum order requirements for each breed, which can make it tricky if you just want one or two of a specific type. For example, it was mentioned that Cackle Hatchery has a three-chick minimum per breed. This means if you're hoping to try out a bunch of different kinds of birds, you might end up with more of each than you actually need or want. This can be a bit of a limitation for someone who enjoys having a diverse flock with just a few of each kind of chicken or duck. It's a very practical consideration for many backyard enthusiasts, really.
This is where a hatchery like Murray McMurray Hatchery can really stand out for some people. The text suggests that if you want to try a lot of different breeds, Murray McMurray Hatchery might be a better choice because you can get as few as you like of each kind. This flexibility is a huge plus for someone who loves variety in their flock. Imagine wanting just one or two rare breeds, or perhaps a single bird of a certain color to add a little something special to your existing group. Being able to order in smaller quantities for each breed means you can experiment more, or simply get exactly what you want without having to commit to a larger number. It's pretty convenient, you know, for those who like to mix things up.
Having the option to order just one or two chicks of a specific breed opens up a lot of possibilities for backyard bird keepers. It means you don't have to fill your coop to the brim just to try out a new type of bird. This kind of freedom in ordering can make the hobby even more enjoyable, as you can tailor your flock to your exact preferences, adding unique personalities and looks without feeling overwhelmed. It's a pretty appealing feature for those who appreciate diversity and like to have a little bit of everything in their yard. So, for people who want to explore a wide range of breeds without large minimums, Murray McMurray Hatchery, apparently, offers a good solution. It's definitely something to consider.
What About Those Surprise Chicks?
The topic of "free surprise chicks" is, honestly, a pretty common and often discussed thing among people who order birds. There was even a thread specifically for anyone who ordered from Murray McMurray Hatchery and got one of these bonus chicks. The big question often is: was it a cockerel (a young male) or a pullet (a young female)? This curiosity is totally understandable because, you know, most people are looking for hens for eggs, and a surprise rooster can change the dynamics of a flock. It's a little bit of a gamble, but it also adds a fun, unexpected element to the order. It's like a little mystery box, really, when you're waiting for them to grow up a bit.
One person mentioned ordering sixteen chicks from them, and the free surprise chick became a point of discussion. This kind of bonus chick can be a neat addition, but the uncertainty about its gender is what makes it a talking point. If you're hoping for all hens, a surprise cockerel might mean you have to find a new home for him later on, which can be a bit of a hassle. On the other hand, if you're open to a rooster, or if you just enjoy the surprise, it can be a delightful bonus. It's a pretty unique aspect of ordering from some hatcheries, and it certainly sparks conversation among bird enthusiasts, like, "What did you get?" It's a fun little twist, in a way, to the whole ordering process.
The nature of these surprise chicks, particularly their gender, seems to be a recurring theme. People are naturally curious about what they'll get. It's a small detail, but it can have a pretty big impact on a backyard flock, especially if space is limited or if you already have enough roosters. The discussion around these bonus birds, and whether they turn out to be male or female, highlights the slightly unpredictable side of ordering live animals. It's a part of the experience that, you know, adds a bit of intrigue and makes each order a little bit different. It's something that people tend to remember and share stories about, especially when talking about places like Murray McMurray Hatchery.
Ameraucana Birds from Murray McMurray Hatchery
When placing an order for chicks, people often have very specific breeds in mind. For example, one person had an order placed with Murray McMurray Hatchery for June 7th, and out of twenty-three chicks, four were 'Ameraucana' hens and one was an 'Ameraucana' rooster. This shows a clear preference for a specific type of bird, likely for their unique blue eggs or their distinctive looks. Ordering a mix of sexes for a particular breed suggests that the person might be looking to start a breeding project, or perhaps just wants a diverse flock that includes both layers and a protector. It's a pretty common goal for those who are serious about their poultry, you know, to get specific breeds.
The mention of 'Ameraucana' birds specifically, and the ratio of hens to a rooster, gives a little peek into the kind of planning that goes into these orders. Getting four hens and one rooster of the same breed is, in
Murray McMurray Hatchery Blog
Murray McMurray Hatchery Blog
Murray McMurray Hatchery Blog
