Ultimate Guide To McMurray Hatchery: Everything You Need To Know

Hector Kuhn 09 Jun 2025

McMurray Hatchery has been a cornerstone in the world of poultry enthusiasts for over a century, providing high-quality birds, unmatched expertise, and a passion for preserving rare and heritage breeds. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a beginner looking to start your backyard flock, McMurray Hatchery has become a trusted name in the industry. With its diverse offerings, exceptional customer service, and deep commitment to sustainability and animal welfare, this hatchery has set the gold standard for poultry breeding across the United States.

Founded in 1917, McMurray Hatchery started as a small family-run business and has grown into one of the most respected hatcheries in North America. Known for its wide variety of chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry, the hatchery caters to customers ranging from hobbyists to commercial farmers. What truly sets McMurray Hatchery apart is its dedication to preserving heritage and rare breeds, ensuring that these invaluable genetic lines remain accessible for future generations.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the history, operations, and services of McMurray Hatchery. We'll also explore the types of birds available, tips for choosing the right poultry for your needs, and expert advice on raising healthy flocks. So, whether you're interested in egg production, meat birds, or simply the joy of raising poultry, this guide will provide you with all the information you need about McMurray Hatchery.

What is McMurray Hatchery?
History and Legacy of McMurray Hatchery
Why Choose McMurray Hatchery for Your Poultry Needs?
What Types of Poultry Are Available at McMurray Hatchery?
How Do You Choose the Right Poultry?
The Importance of Heritage and Rare Breeds
How Does the Ordering and Shipping Process Work?
Essential Tips for Raising Healthy Poultry
What Are Customers Saying About McMurray Hatchery?
Best-Selling Breeds at McMurray Hatchery
What Support and Resources Does McMurray Hatchery Provide?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

What is McMurray Hatchery?

McMurray Hatchery is one of the largest and most reputable poultry hatcheries in the United States, specializing in a variety of birds including chickens, ducks, turkeys, and game birds. Established in 1917, the hatchery serves both small-scale backyard farmers and large-scale commercial operations with premium-quality chicks and exceptional customer support.

McMurray Hatchery sets itself apart by offering an extensive selection of heritage and rare breeds, making it a go-to destination for those looking to diversify their flocks. With over 100 years of experience in the poultry industry, McMurray Hatchery has built a reputation for reliability, quality, and a deep commitment to preserving the genetic diversity of poultry breeds.

Key Features of McMurray Hatchery

Wide selection of poultry types and breeds
Focus on heritage and rare breeds
High hatch rates and healthy chicks
Comprehensive customer support and resources
Commitment to sustainability and animal welfare

History and Legacy of McMurray Hatchery

The story of McMurray Hatchery begins in 1917 when Murray McMurray, a poultry enthusiast, turned his passion into a business. Starting with a small flock of chickens, he was driven by a desire to offer high-quality birds to fellow enthusiasts. Over the decades, the hatchery grew in size and reputation, becoming synonymous with excellence in poultry breeding.

Today, McMurray Hatchery remains a family-owned business, managed by descendants of Murray McMurray. The company has expanded its offerings to include not just chickens, but also ducks, geese, turkeys, and even exotic birds like peafowl and pheasants. Despite its growth, the hatchery has stayed true to its roots, maintaining a focus on quality, heritage breeds, and customer satisfaction.

Why Choose McMurray Hatchery for Your Poultry Needs?

Choosing the right hatchery is a critical decision for anyone looking to raise poultry. Here’s why McMurray Hatchery stands out:

1. Extensive Selection

McMurray Hatchery offers one of the most diverse selections of poultry in the industry. From egg-laying chickens to meat birds, waterfowl, and game birds, there’s something for every need and preference.

2. Heritage and Rare Breeds

The hatchery is renowned for its commitment to preserving heritage and rare breeds, which are often overlooked by commercial hatcheries. These breeds not only add genetic diversity but also bring unique characteristics and benefits to your flock.

3. Superior Quality

With meticulous breeding practices and high hatch rates, McMurray Hatchery ensures that customers receive healthy, vigorous chicks. The hatchery also provides comprehensive care instructions to help you raise your birds successfully.

4. Exceptional Customer Service

McMurray Hatchery is known for its outstanding customer support. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poultry keeper, the team is always ready to assist with expert advice and resources.

5. Sustainability and Ethics

The hatchery places a strong emphasis on sustainability and animal welfare, ensuring that all birds are raised in humane and environmentally friendly conditions.

What Types of Poultry Are Available at McMurray Hatchery?

McMurray Hatchery offers a wide range of poultry to suit various needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the types of birds you can find:

1. Chickens

From egg-layers like Rhode Island Reds to meat birds like Cornish Cross, McMurray Hatchery has a chicken breed for every purpose. They also offer ornamental breeds like Silkies and Polish chickens.

2. Waterfowl

The hatchery offers a variety of ducks and geese, including popular breeds like Pekin ducks for meat and Khaki Campbells for egg production.

3. Turkeys

Whether you’re raising turkeys for meat or as pets, McMurray Hatchery has you covered with breeds like Broad-Breasted Whites and heritage varieties such as Bourbon Reds.

4. Game Birds

For those interested in raising game birds, the hatchery offers pheasants, quail, and partridge, among others.

5. Exotic Birds

McMurray Hatchery also provides exotic options like peafowl, swans, and guinea fowl, perfect for those looking to add a unique touch to their flocks.

How Do You Choose the Right Poultry?

Selecting the right poultry depends on your goals, whether it’s egg production, meat, or simply the joy of keeping birds. Here are some factors to consider:

Purpose: Determine whether you want birds for eggs, meat, or ornamental purposes.
Climate: Some breeds are better suited to specific climates. For example, Brahmas are excellent for cold weather.
Space: Consider the space you have available. Ducks and geese require water sources, while chickens need secure coops and runs.
Experience Level: Beginners may prefer hardy, low-maintenance breeds like Plymouth Rocks or Buff Orpingtons.

The Importance of Heritage and Rare Breeds

Heritage and rare breeds play a crucial role in preserving genetic diversity and maintaining the resilience of poultry populations. McMurray Hatchery is a champion of these breeds, offering a wide selection that includes:

Ameraucanas
Marans
Welsummers
Delawares

Raising heritage breeds not only supports biodiversity but also provides unique traits like superior foraging ability, disease resistance, and distinctive egg colors.

How Does the Ordering and Shipping Process Work?

Ordering from McMurray Hatchery is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Visit the McMurray Hatchery website and browse their offerings.
Select your desired breeds and quantities.
Place your order and choose your preferred shipping date.
Receive your chicks via mail—McMurray Hatchery ensures they arrive healthy and on time.

The hatchery also provides detailed care instructions to help you get started with your new flock.

Essential Tips for Raising Healthy Poultry

Raising poultry requires proper care and attention. Here are some tips to ensure the health and well-being of your birds:

Provide Clean Water: Ensure your birds always have access to fresh, clean water.
Feed a Balanced Diet: Use high-quality feed appropriate for the age and type of bird.
Maintain Clean Housing: Regularly clean coops and runs to prevent disease.
Protect from Predators: Use secure fencing and predator-proof coops.
Monitor Health: Watch for signs of illness and address issues promptly.

What Are Customers Saying About McMurray Hatchery?

Customer reviews of McMurray Hatchery are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the quality of the birds, the wide selection of breeds, and the exceptional customer service. Here’s what some customers have to say:

“I’ve been ordering from McMurray Hatchery for years, and I’ve never been disappointed. The chicks are always healthy, and the staff is incredibly helpful.”

“Their selection of heritage breeds is unmatched. I love the variety and the commitment to preserving these unique birds.”

Best-Selling Breeds at McMurray Hatchery

Some of the most popular breeds at McMurray Hatchery include:

Rhode Island Reds
Buff Orpingtons
Barred Rocks
Ameraucanas
Cornish Cross

What Support and Resources Does McMurray Hatchery Provide?

McMurray Hatchery offers a wealth of resources to help customers succeed in raising poultry. These include:

Detailed care guides
Online FAQs
Expert advice via phone or email
Educational videos and articles

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does McMurray Hatchery ship nationwide?

Yes, McMurray Hatchery ships to all 50 states, ensuring chicks arrive healthy and on schedule.

2. Can I order small quantities of chicks?

Yes, McMurray Hatchery offers small quantities to accommodate backyard farmers and hobbyists.

3. What is the best time to order chicks?

Spring is the most popular time to order chicks, but McMurray Hatchery offers year-round availability for many breeds.

4. Are the chicks vaccinated?

Yes, you can opt for vaccinations during the ordering process to protect your chicks from common diseases.

5. How do I care for chicks upon arrival?

Provide a warm brooder, fresh water, and high-quality starter feed immediately upon receiving your chicks.

6. What if my chicks arrive unhealthy?

McMurray Hatchery has a robust customer satisfaction policy. Contact their support team for assistance.

Conclusion

McMurray Hatchery remains a trusted leader in the poultry industry, offering an unparalleled selection of birds, exceptional quality, and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you're a novice or an experienced poultry keeper, McMurray Hatchery provides everything you need to succeed. By choosing this hatchery, you’re not just investing in healthy, high-quality birds—you’re also supporting a legacy of excellence and innovation in poultry breeding.

Ready to start your poultry journey? Visit the McMurray Hatchery website today and explore their incredible range of offerings!

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