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Recommended Reviews - Murray McMurray Hatchery
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7 years ago
I recently had an order of chicks arrive and they arrived with hypothermia. We had a cold snap across the US and they must have been exposed to the cold. Unfortunately, most of them could not recover and died. After one short and professional conversation the replacement order was filled with amazing customer service. Thank you so much for being and honest and authentic company! We appreciated your service and are excited for the next batch to arrive. Thank you! read more
6 years ago
Don't order from here pls. Ordered 2 ducklings to be delivered the week of the 13th. The order shipped Monday night and was supposed to be here Thursday before 8 pm. We never got the call and then received an email saying they will arrive late. We got them this morning the 17th. 4 days after getting shipped. They McMurray difference is a quick 48 hour guaranteed Delivery. We open the box to dead ducklings. Oh and when they say they are from Iowa yeah that's just the building. They are shipped from California. So if anything happens to shipping you have a "really good"chance of getting them on time AND ALIVE. read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Hi Max, I'll PM you for order information and am happy to coordinate…
12 years ago
I purchased two Brahma "started pullets" this summer. I was surprised with the cost of shipping two live birds($120), but felt it was worth it to have some 15-22 week olds to join my flock of 9 week old free range Aracunas. Both birds arrived safely a couple days late, but that was OK. When I opened the boxes I was surprised by two things. The birds were tiny and neither had feathered feet. My poultry vet came over on my request and stated that these birds were not 15 weeks, he would be surprised if they were 7-10 weeks based on their size and feathering. I called Murray McMurray Hatchery to inquire and they said that they too sometimes got Brahmas without feathers and that the birds were probably small because they free range. These "15 week old" Brahmas, and Brahmas are a bigger breed than Aracunas, were smaller than my 9 week old free range Aracunas. They would not refund any money for the birds or the shipping and said that they were sorry the bird did not arrive as advertised, but the hatchary they buy the birds from provided the age. Better off finding a local supplier where you can see the product you are going to buy prior to buying. Also experienced the same problem receiving catalogs for various Craft and farm suppliers. read more
7 years ago
We have placed three chick orders from Murray McMurray Hatchery in recent years. The most outstanding feature has been the quality of the chicks we receive. They grow up to be exceptionally beautiful birds, have great conformation, good dispositions, and are healthy and disease free. Since the U.S. Post Office changed from two-day Priority Mail to up-to- three-day Priority Mail service, shipping is extra stressful for chicks shipped to our area of the country. However, that is not the Murray McMurray's fault. They go the extra mile to make sure that the chicks arrive alive and well, and most do. The hatchery cannot be held responsible for the inefficiencies of the Post Office's delivery system, and yet Murray McMurray will refund the cost of every chick that does not survive its first two days after delivery. Now that's customer service! Murray McMurray prides itself on the quality of their breeding stock, the cleanliness of their operation, and on their customer service. It shows. They seem to have very happy employees and little turnover. I've spoken to the same customer-service representative since 2007! Quality chicks become quality birds, assuming good husbandry. The birds in our flocks are always stand-outs, compared to the birds our friends have purchased at feed stores or other hatcheries. Several of our hens have seen their 15th birthdays and beyond, still alive and well. We also appreciate the fact that we can have our chicks vaccinated for Marek's disease and Coccidiosis. We enjoy trying to figure out what breed our free "mystery chick" is. Actually, Murray McMurray usually includes several free chicks with each of our orders. We've been introduced to some wonderful breeds, thanks to our "mystery chicks"! If you care about quality and value for your money, and if you appreciate great customer service, we think you'll be pleased with Murray McMurray. We will certainly continue to return to Murray McMurray with our future orders. Thanks, Murray McMurray! read more
6 years ago
I've been buying chicks from McMurray starting in 1999, as well as buying feed store chicks & my own raised ones. But this year something went terribly wrong. I ordered 29 chicks, got 34, and 9 died. 1 was dead on delivery (that does happen), 2 cream leg bars & 2 blue cochins never ate or drank and died. A Mottled Houdan died @ 2 weeks. At 3 weeks a cream leg bar got neurological problems @ died. Another cream leg bar never got over bantie sized & both she and a Welsummer became paralyzed in their legs. That's over 25% mortality - never in 23 years of raising chicks has this happened. And 58% of the leg bars. They were suppose to be vaccinated for Mereks & Coccidiosis @ hatchery. This is new property (never had chickens on it), new coop, raised 100% perfect (food, water, bedding, shelter). It wasn't my fault......What's UP McMurray? read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Hi Dawn, sorry to hear about your chicks. I'll PM you to touch base…
5 years ago
Me and my dad ordered 30 quails and ended up having half of them dying because of the terrible small cold box that we got them in
6 years ago
Hi everyone! I'm Catherine from LA and this was my first time ordering chicks online so I was super nervous in the weeks leading up to it and did a lot of research and I'm soooo glad I ended up choosing Murray McMurray Hatchery. My chicks arrived super fast even though Iowa to California is kinda far and all of them were lively and super active. None of them seemed lethargic and after some food and water, they all seemed super healthy as well! I ordered 17 chicks and got 19 so I was pretty stoked!! Now, two days later, all of them are doing well and no casualties have arisen! Another thing is their customer service is absolutely amazing: I originally got two buff laced polish girls but wanted one of them to be a white polish. However at the time of ordering, none were available; yet, when I contacted McMurray afterwards and asked if it would be at all for just one white polish girl, they were able to arrange that for me super quickly and hassle free. The rep also went on to explain to me about their shipping process, the grow gel they include, and how electrolytes can help the chicks after arrival. Thus my worries were all addressed and the chicks came in all alive and well! Very impressed! read more
6 years ago
I received 10 eggs from MacMurray egg hatchery after about a six week wait time. Only one of the eggs received was fertile the other nine were duds. Be careful before you spend $50.00 on eggs from this hatchery. As a note I had other eggs from my flock in the same incubator and they hatched. When I opened the MMH eggs after 24 days all but the one egg from MMH were nothing but old eggs .. no embryo. I will not order from them again. They have a well written no refund policy, but in this case I would think a replacement set of eggs would have been appropriate. I would have even paid the shipping. One lost customer will not affect there business, but I encourage anyone to consider another hatchery first. read more
8 years ago
I purchased some Blue lace Wyndottes and some Speckled Sussex....there was one dead on arrival and within 24 hrs six of the blue lace chicks were dead.....that was 6 weeks ago.... I still have 15 chicks. I ordered 20 chicks, they mailed 22 counting the extra roo......Not too bad for late October...... read more
9 years ago
Ordered eggs from them twice. First time 5 eggs were broken and none hatched. Decided to try them again. I ordered 30 chicken eggs. $163 dollars. I am experienced with incubation and hatching poultry and I monitored this hatch very closely. One Red Star chicken hatched, I floated the others and there was no development. I wrote them an email and they did not respond. Not a word. I did know that they do not guarantee any eggs to hatch. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me. There will never be a third time that I order from this place. So my advice is to save your money and buy eggs from a local farmer. This place is overpriced and I have had two bad experiences and wasted hundreds of dollars on overpriced eggs that do not hatch. read more
7 years ago
We ordered a box of chicks. 2out of 16 were alive but one was slowly dying. Both died within twelve hours. They sent us a replacement box. They promised two days hopping. This time we didn't receive the box for three days after it shipped. Again, 2 were alive out of 16. Within one hour both of those died. It is absolutely disgusting to get a box of dead chicks and so in humane to leave day old baby chicks in a box for three days. Watching baby chicks slowly die is awful. I will never order from this company again. read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Hi Sutter,…
6 years ago
Iv been buying Murray McMurray chicks since 1988, I had a small window of opportunity to buy the french marans back in November 2019, had a confirmation number and a order date of July 202 and they had my payment info. Checked the order status in Jan, 2020 it was still there, Setting up for new chicks to arrive, checked order status June 29th, EVERYTHING is gone! No account info. Called, oh we are so sorry. Bullshit! Never again. And the countless feed stores and people I had been recommending Never Again!. I'm sure you dont need my money, Iv since read the reviews and this hatchery has gone down hill . Apparently I'm just another person who got screwed . read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Following up on your review, and your calls. We do have a record of…
8 years ago
I have close to 100 free-range chickens, all of which were ordered online from another hatchery so have a little bit of experience in this area. My wife really likes the look of the Polish breeds so I ordered 15 chicks from McMurray Hatchery. These arrived this morning in a tiny box, small enough to have 5 of the 15 chicks literally trampled flat, one with a broken leg and another two who is unlikely to live through the day. No refund required, no replacements asked - I honestly want nothing to do with this company every again. read more
8 years ago
I've been a customer of Murray McMurray hatchery for over 10 years. I've purchased many types of eggs, various juvenile birds, and a variety of hatching equipment from them. I've always received quality products, excellent service and quick turn around on my orders. They are always my go to company for all my poultry needs. Thank you M.M. Hatchery! read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Karin, thanks for the review and for choosing McMurray Hatchery! Let…
7 years ago
I have ordered from this company for years with good success. This year is my last. I ordered 16 expensive ducklings for $110. The box arrived with only 7 ducklings inside. The box was flimsy cardboard with two tiny, mini-paper-stapler type staples holding the flimsy cardboard top on, one staple on each end. Clearly the second it was handled one of the staples popped off, allowing the lid to flap open. The sides of the lid were gaping and the cardboard easily folded back. The box was nowhere near big enough for 16 ducklings. The ducklings could have gotten out even without the tiny staple popping out, as the soft cardboard gaped widely. There was no tape or other securing device, just 2 staples. So the ducklings died awful deaths squashed or frozen in a truck somewhere. I expect more for that price. It's negligent and lazy, bordering on cruel. How is it possible someone put them in that box, secured it with one staple, and thought that was good? The birds that did arrive were in fine shape, but come on McMurray, you are dealing with LIVING CREATURES and you need to take more care. For $106, I expect more than 8 cent packaging. If that. read more
8 years ago
I ordered two 4 week old Speckled Sussex back in June of this year and 3 months later both have died. I won't be ordering from here again. I really wanted that breed both chicks were so sweet and loving and to watch them die was heart breaking. read more
Business owner information
G. A.
Customer Service
Sandra, so sorry to hear about your birds. I’ll PM you to find out…
8 years ago
Box of dead chicks arrived. Purchased 42 chicks, took four days from shipment to delivery. 10 chicks were dead. Called the company and they sent out a replacement of 10 chicks. I had mentioned that 4 days was too long to ship chicks and I would pay for priority shipment. They told me I could not. They shipped the 10 chicks and four days later a box of 10 dead chicks arrived. I would not recommend buying from McMurray unless you live very close. I live in Michigan. read more
7 years ago
I have ordered from McMurray years ago successfully. This year, 2 orders, almost $200 and several weak & deformed chicks later I'm frustrated. Now at 8 & 5 weeks into the raising process i've Lost another chick due to failure to thrive. It just wasted away. I ordered all pullets and have roosters developing almost everyday. Contacted the company about number of roosters and they answered they only promised 90% accuracy in determining sex. What once was good now has disappointed me. They did credit me for initial dead chicks, not sure of the outcome of ongoing rooster population..... read more
8 years ago
Ordered two 4 week old pullets to supplement my backyard flock. They arrived in very poor condition but better than My Pet Chicken. Nursed them back to health but one turned out a roo. A sexing score of 50% is basically a random result, what you get tossing a coin. I douubt they were sexed at all. read more
6 years ago
I have been buying chicks,ducks. and geese for over 40 years and have had some dead chicks, the have always taken care and fixed it. Don't blame Mcmurray for the bad service from the post office. Mcmurray is the best place to buy your birds,and if you have problems they take care of it, Blame the POST OFFICE. read more
8 years ago
I bought 2 baby ducks. The cayuga is doing well. My white crested had such an enlarged crest that it fully covered her left eye. She was thus blind out of one eye. She shakes her head from side to side and can't interact with other ducks as they trample her. So, I'm off to the vet to grt surgery quotes and bought her her own enclosure ($400). What did Murray McMurray say...trim her feathers. It helps but it doesn't remove the crest from in front of her eye. I know crested ducks are sensitive breeds but responsible breeding should be required. Luckily Emma has a great home because she will see again. read more
8 years ago
I ordered fertile eggs from McMurray and ended up with zero chicks. I have hatched eggs before with no issues. I have perfect temperature and humidity in my incubator. My first dozen eggs I ordered arrived at my house a day late, frozen and cracked. I called to report the issue and spoke to the rudest woman who in the end said they would ship new eggs the following week but it would be the one and only replacement of eggs. When I received my second batch of eggs, one was broke but the rest appeared good. I let the eggs rest and placed them in my incubator the next day. I ended up with no chicks. What a waste of money! I do not over handle my eggs, I candle on day 7, day 14 and they go on lockdown for the last 3 days. This is no fault of my own, it is bad eggs being shipped to paying customers. Never again will I purchase from Murray McMurray Hatchery. read more
6 years ago
We ordered 20 eggs from Murray McMurray Hatchery. They took a while to arrive, when they did there were 24 eggs (extras in case some crack during shipping, which they did). We noticed right away that 4 eggs were cracked when they arrived. We put the other 20 eggs in two incubators. We turned them 3 times a day, made sure there was the proper amount of water in them, made sure the temperature was correct daily. After waiting 18 days, we added more water and stopped turning them in preparation for their hatching. On day 21 one chick hatched. ONE out of 20 eggs! It's normal for some eggs not to hatch, even for half the eggs not to hatch, but 1/20 is a really bad result. I called Murray McMurray. The woman I spoke with asked if the incubators had ever been used before - yes. She said that they're not responsible for whether the eggs hatch or not once they leave their farm. I kept the eggs in the incubator for an additional 3 days just to make sure. Then I candled them before getting rid of them. Only one of the remaining eggs looked like it had started to develop, but never finished developing. The other 18 eggs looked unfertilized, no development. The farm refused to refund us any money or send more eggs -- not that I would want to go through that experience again. We couldn't have just one chick. They need to be with other chicks. We gave Mabel to a local farm who coincidentally had chicks just 2 days older than Mabel. We are hopeful that she's living a great life there with her new friends, but are so disappointed that we don't have chicks and chickens to keep. read more
8 years ago
I've ordered 25-45 female baby chicks every year for the past five years. I live in Alaska and every chick has been alive and well and healthy and CUTE! I've ordered all different types using the chick selector to pinpoint the type I need that is cold tolerant and lays well. I highly recommend Murray McMurray Hatchery for baby chicks if you want them sent to Anchorage, Alaska, or anywhere else. If you call with questions the staff is knowledgeable and helpful as well. read more
6 years ago
I used to love this hatchery but....the last two years have been frustrating. Last year I paid for 26 pullets and got three roosters, one was the free chick but the other two I had paid for pullets. Last year I tried to buy several different breeds but most weren't available on the same weeks (i.e Bielefelders, Delawares. This year I specifically waited till all were available and paid for them but they didn't ship the bielefelder's. I'm not certain they even have this breed. I understand that hatches can vary but a company hatching every week should have a pretty good idea how many they should have "before" they take my money and mess up my once a year order OR they could have told me that they weren't shipping before hand and given me the opportunity to cancel or delay the whole order. I'm still hoping at least I have all pullets (except the free one) this year but who knows anymore. If not I'll find a new hatchery. This is the only hatchery I've ever used so I can't compare to others but Murray McMurray seems to be on a downhill slide. read more
8 years ago
Excellent customer service, beautifully healthy chicks. I have trusted Murray McMurray for over 30 years.
9 years ago
Update: after multiple emails with customer service, I finally called and spoke to a human person. We came to an agreement and they are replacing the lost babies. I just hope it doesn't take 4 days for them to get here again. read more
10 years ago
I have gotten 50 at a time for couple years. As of right now out of those many come in dead. Then with in two to three days over half die. I guess I need to find new hatcher. I have tried for years changing I have lost to much money read more
10 years ago
We've ordered from this hatchery several times. Their error rate for sexing chicks is much higher than they say. Two of our orders were off by 20%. Our last order was for 16 hens and so far we've positively identified that 6 of them are roosters. That's over 37% and that is unacceptable. read more
10 years ago
I have had nothing but great experiences with MMH. I'm on my 6th & 7th orders from them. Always helpful & courteous. Chicks and ducks are always healthy. read more
12 years ago
I would not ever use this business to order fertile eggs again. I ordered several dozen for a school project. After waiting and anticipating the 21 days of incubation, my students and I and the other classes were extremely disappointed that hardly any of the eggs hatched. To make it worse, we found out that most of the eggs weren't even fertile! So not worth the time or the money! read more
9 years ago
Let me start with my last order: 5 months ago I ordered 15 brown leghorn hens and 2 white leghorn cocks....well 4 months later, after hours of wasted time and money on electricity for heat lamps and over $100 on food- I have 1 hen and 14 fighting and crowing roosters. I contacted mcmurray and they claim that I, a small hobby farmer who lives in a suburban home in the middle of Clearwater florida, ordered 17 roosters. I have ordered from them a few times in the past 6 years and there is ALWAYS something wrong whether chickens, quails or ducks. I ordered 20 australorp hens and got 7 roosters with the order. Ordered a dozen assorted hatching eggs and put them in incubator with 7 of my own eggs. 4 of my own eggs hatched-ZERO from mcmurray- and they all had zero growth as if unfertilized. Dont waste your money on them and their ridiculous prices. read more
9 years ago
I'm so glad to learn i'm not the only one who received weak and sickly chicks..I know without a doubt, many of my chicks were not shipped out the day of hatching..i've raised chicks for many years, and my last shipment I received..I knew something was very wrong, and called customer service the next business day, at least half of my chicks died, and one had no eyes. No the eyes were not pecked out during shipment..sockets were dry. I was refunded for my loss, but that's not the point..I didn't order a shipment of chicks, just so I could watch them die. And much of my order, wasn't what i ordered..and the customer service rep. tried to play it off, as if this never happens..will try another hatchery next time..many of those chicks were NOT newborns, and it was obvious to me. This used to be, state of the art business to order chicks, and now I see, it's a business cutting corners, and if the chicks die, so what?, give the money back..not what I signed up for, and won't again..i've never ordered chicks from any other hatchery before..but it's time to check and give them a chance..can't be any worse than my last shipment read more
11 years ago
I've had two experiences with ordering chicks from Murray McMurray hatchery. The first was seven years ago and I, along with three friends, ordered 40 + chicks. The birds got very chilled in route and over half died. The hatchery credited the lost chicks, but it was really unpleasant and the birds were packed without a heat pack, something other hatcheries do, Meyers for one, which really helps the survival rate. This past week, a friend ordered 63 chicks from them. I had agreed to help start the chicks and didn't know they were being ordered from Murray McMurray. The estimated delivery time was sat - tues. We were worried that they had been shipped Friday and we wouldn't receive them until Monday, even if they were sent overnight, we're in a remote town. When the hatchery was called, they said they were not shipping out until Monday which was a big relief as we had a chance to get them in a more timely manner. Sure enough, the chicks arrived Tuesday morning. When they arrived and we opened the box, we were dismayed to see many dead chicks. Understandably travel is not easy on young birds, but some of these birds also seemed to be more than a day old judging by the feather development on the wings and the amount of droppings in the travel box. I feel like some of the birds probably hatched out on Saturday and were held for shipping until the other birds could be added. As a result, almost 35% of the birds died within the first day and another 15% have died the second day. The reason why it is considered relatively safe to ship newly hatched birds is that they are able to live off of the egg yolk reserve for a day or two before they have to have food. Holding onto birds to complete an order is just a disaster in the making. Really unfortunate way to treat living animals, cruel and unpleasant. I would not recommend this business due to the way they pack and treat the chicks. Will strongly counsel anyone from using them to purchase young chicks. read more
9 years ago
I ordered 16 chicks and was also supposed to receive a free "bonus" chick that could be anything (and I could find no way to opt out of getting this surprise chick). My chicks arrived and there are only 13 instead of 17- no bonus chick (no big deal as far as I'm concerned) but short 3 araucanas. Those are the ones I particularly wanted. The only option from their customer service was to credit me for the missing chicks or ship me 12 more. If I did that, I'd end up with 9 chicks that could be any variety, either gender. I took the credit but I'm very dissatisfied. There is no excuse for that kind of error on such a small order. Apparently they have employees that can't count. When I consider Becky's review that says 37% were incorrectly sexed, who knows what I'll end up with. Not happy and will never order from them again. I'll make the 2 hour trek to the livestock auction next year. read more
10 years ago
I would never recommend this hatchery...especially if plan on getting them as pets and could become attached. First, I ordered 4 week old juvenile HENS so I would get exactly what I wanted. Well one died within the first day. Either due to the trauma of shipping or maybe that it wasn't 4 weeks old. I can't prove its age but it wasn't even half of the size as some of the others. Second, one of my barred rocks kept looking more and more like a rooster. I would send pictures to the hatchery every few weeks who would say according to the pictures on google she still looks like a hen. Well when she(he) started crowing I called and the woman on the phone gave a chuckle. They are supposedly sending me a refund but I had become attached to this bird! I found it a home today which I thought was a good thing being that no one wants roosters in the first place. Upon dropping him off he immediately had gotten attacked by the other roosters and I'm pretty sure was being killed in front of my eyes as my husband drug me away as i cried hysterically. Thirdly, I've read many reviews by this point about Mcmurray raising a mean strain of barred rock. Well I too believe this to be true. The one female I have left is as nasty as could be...as was the other female/male that I just had murdered. My other chickens are super friendly but my barred rocks bite at you the moment you go near them. I have been in and around them since I've gotten them at 4 weeks so I've tried to make them people friendly. Again, I repeat... do not order if want your chickens as pets. I assure you there are other companies out there that will ship in small quantities. Just learn from my mistakes and do your research. read more
More info about Murray McMurray Hatchery
191 Closz Dr
Webster City, IA 50595
Directions
(800) 456-3280
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com
Hours
What time does Murray McMurray Hatchery open?
Murray McMurray Hatchery opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
What time does Murray McMurray Hatchery close?
Murray McMurray Hatchery closes at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Murray McMurray Hatchery is closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMSat-Sun Closed
Payment methods
Does Murray McMurray Hatchery take Bitcoin?
No, Murray McMurray Hatchery does not take Bitcoin.
Does Murray McMurray Hatchery take credit cards?
Yes, Murray McMurray Hatchery takes credit cards.
Indoor Amenities
Does Murray McMurray Hatchery allow dogs?
No, Murray McMurray Hatchery does not allow dogs.
Outdoor Amenities
Does Murray McMurray Hatchery have bike parking?
No, Murray McMurray Hatchery does not have bike parking.
Does Murray McMurray Hatchery have parking?
Yes, Murray McMurray Hatchery has parking options.
From the Business
Specialties
Do you have questions or need to connect with us about a new or existing order? Don't hesitate to give us a call at 800.456.3280. Our Customer Service staff will help you with any questions or concerns you may have. Please note that this page is not continuously monitored. At McMurray Hatchery, we have been hatching the highest quality baby chicks and other poultry and waterfowl for over 100 years. We are a family-owned company that takes pride in providing our customers with the highest quality day-old baby chicks, baby and juvenile poultry, and a complete line of poultry equipment and related products. We have been a trusted, knowledgeable industry resource for generations -- let us help you choose from our over 120 breeds, and supplies, to help you raise a strong, successful flock.
History
Established in 1917.
Murray McMurray officially started his chicken business in 1917. He had always been interested in poultry as a young man and particularly enjoyed showing birds at the local and state fairs. He was in the banking business at this time and sold baby chicks through the bank to area farmers and hobbyists. When incubators became available he was able to purchase several small Buckeye incubators to hatch and sell his own stock. In 1919 he sent out his first catalog and price list and continued to carry on both the banking and the hatchery business. During the early stages of the depression his bank went broke. It was then he decided to go into the hatchery and mail order baby chick business full time. Today — over 100 years later — McMurray Hatchery carries over 120 breeds of baby chicks, ducklings, turkeys, goslings, pheasants, quail, peafowl and other rare and exotic birds.
Ask the Community - Murray McMurray Hatchery
Review Highlights - Murray McMurray Hatchery
“Last year the Post Office did not notify us of our chicks' arrival, but, thankfully, they came on time in spite of the Post Office's lack of notification.”
Mentioned in 2 reviews
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
44 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
7 years ago
This new chicken mommy is very happy! We Ordered 21 chicks Sunday night super late and received them at 5 am this (Tues) morning. We ordered on the weekend with priority shipping ($47 to CA and of course since they are live) as USPS is only place that will deliver live chicks for us and we didn't want them to have a long weekend trip. We received confirmation from McMurray that they were shipped Monday Morning. I spent a somewhat anxious night worried about them as I hadn't done this before. I had nothing to worry about. My post office called me at 5 am this morning to let me know they were here and I was able to pick them up immediately. I must have grinned all the way home listening to 21 baby chicks. At home, I opened a very ventilated secure container of 21 chicks, all extremely healthy-looking and alert. I was expecting some of them to be worn out from the trip but all were alert and eager to check out their new digs. We did purchase the Gro-gel, vaccinations for Marek's (20 cents/chick) and Coccidiosis Vaccination (20 cents/chick) and the Pulorum certificate cuz $1.10 and why not have proof of where they came from. We also purchased the broiler booster although we purchased for egg layers because of the extra vitamins. I do strongly recommend getting the heat lamp up right away and not delaying at all because I quickly found the volume of chirping reduced dramatically once that was in place. I had done that about 20 minutes after getting them in their new space while I introduced water and food, but they wouldn't have anything to do with the food/water until they were warmed up. Also, I had forgotten their YouTube video had mentioned using warm water for the chicks instead of just however it came from tap, so it took a second for the chicks to show enough interest. Definitely introduce them to the water though by dipping their beaks in it. I know there are other reviews on here with different experiences but that has not at all been mine. Here is a list of the breeds of chicks we ordered if that is helpful as well at all. Ameraucana, New Hampshire Red, Black Star, Delaware, Pearl White Leg Horn, Whiting True Blue, Whiting True Green, Black Australorp and of course our free one. Although I neglected to note the name of the representative I spoke to each time, I wouldn't mind McMurray looking them up with my order number when they look over reviews (1677995). Both times the woman I spoke with was pleasant, very patient and answered all of my questions. read more
6 years ago
I put in my first ever order with Murray McMurray roughly a month ago. I purchased 15 Buff Orpingtons day old chicks. When I placed my order I was well aware that I wouldn't get the a few days later. The ordering process was simple, though some of the addons like the vaccinations, quik chik and Gro-Gel Plus I really didn't know what I was buying. Mainly because I didn't research that side of things. While ordering I selected everything just to be sure and it told me that some of the things were not necessary if you had other things selected, which is great! Every week I logged on and looked at my order and saw that I could get the chicks a week earlier! The week that they were to be shipped I received an email and text message (I choose this option) on Monday. Wednesday we (wife and I) got a call from the post master saying they arrived. All of the chicks were alive and well and very loud. Walking up we could hear there, and I'm sure the workers were glad to see them go. When we got home we inspected them and the free rare chick, which is super cute either a Brahma or Cochin it has fluffy toes they looked good not problems by my novice eye. We put them in the brooder and they went nuts eating and drinking. We made the Gro-Gel and they didn't seem too impressed about it and walked on it more than eat it. The next day the extra chick was very lethargic, and we panicked worried that we'd loose our now favorite chick. We added the quik-chik to the water and I would show it where the water was by dipping it's beak into the water, we also gave it a raw yoke and a scrambled egg (none of the other chicks were interested in either). Nothing really changed. Days later watching the extra chick it just seems that that it's disposition. It will eat and drink, then sleep. Eat and drink then sleep. Where the others love to scratch the pine bedding and run around and tackle each other. If you want a laugh get a laser pointer or a piece of lettuce. Overall Murray Mcmurray did exactly what I expected, gave us 15 happy health chicks and added a extra chick that we are falling in love with. They will be my go to when ordering in the future. read more
8 years ago
I had several problems with my first (and last) order with McMurray. 1) slow shipping 2) lack of compassion for their birds 3) 75% of my order died within months When I ordered them I was told overnight shipping. I was able to see through tracking that they had been checked into the postal service in the evening the day they were shipped. First they claimed they couldn't see the tracking information, then they said they were near my location, then admitted they didn't know where they were at all! I had arranged with local post office ahead of time to call me immediately when they arrived since it had now been over 72 hours. They all (4 pullets) arrived alive but in bad shape. All of them were missing feathers and bleeding, a couple pieces of limp looking veggies in the bottom, and no water to be seen. When I called to complain the response from customer service was "when we guarantee 2 day shipping the first day doesn't count"!!?? They didn't care. They were 4-9 weeks old at the time. The first one died at roughly 3/4 months old. The next died at 6/7 months old, and just today another died at 10 months old. All of them died of either neurological problems or heart/liver failure (water belly). The 2 who died most recently never laid any eggs at all though they were both old enough that they should have been. The one remaining from the order seems to be doing just fine and is laying. I should note I have 8 other chickens, 4 of which are several years old, and I've NEVER had a chicken just drop dead before. We tend them very well. Not only did we order rare breed so they cost more, but we loved these birds and looked at them as pets with a perk. My kids had to burry 3 pets within months. I would not recommend them. read more
7 years ago
I have been ordering and receiving chicks with the occasional duck and goose order from Murray McMurray hatchery, frequently and for over 25 years. They send text messages to track the arrival of my birds. On one order I had 1-2 chicks arrive dead(it was so long ago I cannot remember the exact number). They have many tips and instructions on the care of these young chicks and I wonder if some of the complaining reviewers bothered to read or follow the instructions. The chicks are active, chirping and have no problem starting their first meal! They love the grow gel. The adult birds are beautiful and usually very friendly, following me when I bring them their treats. On the one occasion, where the post office apparently delayed the shipment (they never offered an explanation) the birds never arrived, presumably dead, as the tracking report noted 'discarded!' by the postal service at a hub in transit. Never a word from the post office. I went to the local post office, made calls, could get no explanation. I was heartbroken. The service lady at Murray McMurray was very kind and she sent, at the next weeks shipment date, at no charge, a replacement order. And the extra chicks they send are always a nice surprise and I feel serve as a positive extra to my order and not a burden or expectation of death of chicks in transit. So I say, if you have a problem with your order, contact them before you post negative comments. I sure some people have done this and I am not directing this to them. But I have always have had good experiences when contacting them (by phone). read more
6 years ago
After several years of being chicken free, the kids & I decided that this year we would begin to build up a flock again. Initially, I bought barnyard straightrun mix chicks locally, however a couple of the mixes caught my eye, so I began looking at hatcheries online. McMurray was one of the first ones that popped up. I have ordered at least 7+ batches of chicks/ducklings and so far they have been extremely accurate with pullets vs cockerel vs straightrun. I love knowing we can have such accuracy in knowing how many are females, and that all the kids favorites will not be little roos! We had our first dead on arrival this morning. I spoke with a representative, and she was sympathetic & quickly assisted in adding on the Sultan into an order that I have coming in a couple weeks. All 6 of the other sultans in the box are thriving, as are the other 2 kinds of chicks I ordered. McMurray is my hatchery of choice. I do look forward to seeing when they might have a few more exotic/rare breeds in (I love Russian Orloff, Ayam cemani & Hedemora), However we are so thankful that the majority of our purchases can be made through McMurray. We have ordered and recieved both chicks & ducklings- and aside from the one DOA today, all have been very healthy & I constantly get complemented on my diverse flock of chickens. Thank you McMurray! read more
6 years ago
I left a review earlier this year about my horrible experience, ordered 25 leghorns 10 red (5 straight run and 5 pullets), 10 silver (5 straight run and 5 pullets) and 5 brown leghorn roosters to fill the order. I received exactly that, no extras and one exotic free chick. all the red ones died within 36 hours except for one, and all the silver ones except for 4, the exotic and 5 brown roosters all survived they are now 4 months old, the brown leghorn roosters and one red pullet are roughly 75 % as big as my home hatched leghorns of the exact same age and the silver leghorn pullets (4) are smaller than my hatch-lings that are 4 weeks younger or roughly half the size of the brown leghorn roosters and maybe 40 percent the size of my home leghorn hatches of the same age. To be fair they did issue me a full refund, although not voluntarily. What bothers me the most though is I cannot find the review that I left, it was there for about 3 weeks and then just disappeared. I was contacted by a McMurray representative and asked for contact info to discuss my experience, which I provided, instead of contacting me, they (someone here at yelp?) took my review down. Is that how this works? McMurray says they worked it out and yelp takes the review down? read more
8 years ago
I researched for more than a year and attended classes before I made the plunge and ordered chicks. I was very apprehensive about ordering chicks online but had very specific interest in breed selection and as close as you can get -lower my chance of getting a rooster. I reached out to Murray McMurray and placed my order for 22 chicks(received one free chicks so 23). I received a text message that the chicks had shipped on 4/16 and tracked them through the system using the USPS tracking number. I called my postmaster and learned that mail for my small community goes to a main office before reaching my small rural post office. I arranged to pick up chicks at the main post office (they are likely glad that my chickens arrived-I called them a "few" times). Saved them an extra night at the post office. On the morning of 4/18 they arrived. All 23 chicks were alive and healthy and just what I ordered (havent figured out the mystery chick yet). Considering that in April - they travelled from Iowa to KY, two airports and two truck rides, I was happy. Its day 3 and they are thriving! I have guineas coming in June! Hope the next experience is as great at this one! Atleast the folks at the post office know me! Thank you Murray McMurray. read more
7 years ago
I've been buying from Murray McMurray Hatchery for about 8 years, and their product and customer service is excellent! That is exactly why they have been around for as long as they have been, because they value their customers and continuously strive for the best product line. I buy 100's Of baby chicks from them annually, I've NEVER had one dead on arrival, (not saying it couldn't happen) but I've been fortunate for it not to. Now during the rearing process I may lose a few, it happens. As a matter of fact, they always provide extra chicks, just Incase Of losses. I raise a lot of different species of animals and it is paramount that one gains the knowledge of properly raising animals for the best survival rates, there are many factors that goes into properly raising animals and just because someone may raise animals throughout their life doesn't necessarily mean they are experts and giving a bad review on this company because of incompetence, arrogance, passing blame or a combination of these is ridiculous. Again, I appreciate Murray McMurray Hatchery and will continue to purchase from them! read more
6 years ago
I ordered chicks from McMurray in the spring. Had second doubts, cancelled the order. Decided a week later to bite the bullet, reordered them. McMurray staff were very kind and helpful with my indecisiveness! I've wanted chickens for years...I don't know why I waited this long! They arrived 48 hours after shipping...healthy and ready to eat and drink! McMurray provided great information about initial care of chicks...dip their beaks in water before placing them in brooder, keep them warm, what to feed, etc. I've had them almost a week. They're growing incredibly fast and are thriving! I had been reading about different breeds of chickens and tried to order specific ones, but waited too late in the year to be able to get the ones I wanted, early in the summer. Instead, I ordered the generic "brown egg layer" assortment, and I'm glad I did. We received a nice variety of chickens. (15 chicks +1, 5-6 varieties). I and my grandkids are having fun trying to figure out just which breeds they sent. The entire process has been enjoyable. I'd definitely order from McMurray again! read more
6 years ago
I LOVE McMurray Hatchery. I had ordered Buff Orpington chicks from them a few years back, and was very pleased. We had zero chick losses, and the chickens grew up to be healthy, active foragers. We ordered more chicks this year and 2 of the 17 died same day. (No fault of McMurray- I ordered an assortment and it was evident that 2 of the smaller chicks were trampled/weak from shipping.) I let them know so I could be credited, and mentioned that I was a little surprised that I had mostly exotic breed (medium egg) layers in the layer (large egg) assortment. They sent me an additional batch of brown egg layers at no charge! Now I have 30 beautiful healthy chicks and I am very excited to watch my flock grow and thrive. Their service is excellent and (unlike chicks purchased from most feed stores) you can opt to have your chicks vaccinated before shipping. This makes a big difference to flock longevity in an area with a wide assortment of chickens and wild birds. I highly recommend them! read more
5 years ago
Ordered 8 chicks a few weeks ago for a backyard flock and they shipped as expected. Of course, we were nervous about shipping and weather conditions along their route but it would be extremely unfair to hold Murray McMurray accountable for Mother Nature and USPS. Happy to say that all of the chicks arrived super healthy and full of energy! It seems to me that a number of the negative reviews are related to poor conditions during shipping and the chicks being stressed upon delivery. I felt like Murray McMurray did everything they could to ensure safe delivery. They were packaged beautifully, however, it should be understood that baby chicks are fragile and conditions during shipping aren't always ideal. Use discretion when deciding who should open the box first as it might be wise to have an adult examine the shipment prior to a child. We were very happy with Murray McMurray and will absolutely use them again if we ever decide to increase the size of our flock! read more
6 years ago
We placed our 1st order for two started Black Australorp pullets. They arrived but were barely 2 weeks old. Figured they came healthy so didn't complain about the excessive charges (mostly shipping) for improperly aged chicks. Unfortunately, both were Cocks and we had to place them. I complained since we had to spend additional time in raising only to have received roosters, so they gave us a credit to purchase/replace with two started pullets. I was adamant that they be sexed and aged appropriately especially if they were 16 weeks as advertised. We received 2 "chicks" aged at approx. 8 weeks of age. Barely had their adult feathers in. We've had them for a month and they appear to be only 3 months old according to size, color and comparable photos. We spent almost $200 for started pullets and both orders were not what was represented. Two stars only because they were alive and not sick. I wouldn't use a credit again if offered. read more
7 years ago
It's rare that I take time to review a lot. This I knew I had to. We purchased an order of ringneck pheasants and true blue whiting chickens in May 2019. Both came in the time allotted and full of happy healthy chickens. They have been great fowl that are now almost to full maturity. All of my chickens are living and a few pheasants have passed ( though I am curtain it was my fault being a first time buying and raising them). I will say I know many who buy from here and only have good to say. That's why I want to encourage all to try for yourself. We all know there will be hiccups. From a first time buyer to all out there looking for great fowl to purchase please consider this business. Not all will have the same experience as my self I know. But it has been wonderful with these birds. Plus they send you a free rare bird with every chicken order. Ours has been great but that's another story. read more
1 year ago
When I have got chicks from Tractor Supply they usually don't do so hot so getting them from here they are great. They are always so nicely packaged and arrive great. I love how they give you updates when they ship and when they reach the post office. We have not yet received out selection of Ameracaunas yet but they should be arriving soon. I am exited to see the mystery chick because it will be fun to have a sweet surprise! Also the customer service line is great on the website with real and helpful people who value your needs. Wish I could give you all more stars because the performance is GREAT! Hope they keep up great work and keep thinking about lives they change every time a chick box is opened. I always remember that day in the post office opening up my loving baby chicks. Thanks all the thought put into the bundles of joy you send! read more
7 years ago
I have been ordering chicks from you for many years. In any shipment a couple (or more) chicks die in transit and first few days of receiving chicks. This year there was a mix up somehow and my 25 chicken were not 25, but Around 50. I lost 3 chicks only and I made my hubby fix up the storage room and that stuff went into greenhouse. After a couple weeks of getting used to everything and a bit feathered out I had hubby build an outdoor run with wire and netting all around as I have a couple of ravens that have moved in . My geese were trying to set on eggs, but hubby didn't put netting on top and ravens got all the eggs. I sure do love my chickens. Linda Antoni-Taylor read more
7 years ago
I have ordered from almost every hatchery, different times of the year and I'm very please with this one. I live in Texas and I ordered in July, so I knew there was a real possibility for problems. They shipped on a Wednesday and I got them on Friday. They were a little dehydrated but overall were very healthy. I did expect this because of the heat and my experience with the postal system is not everyone cares about the well being of the chicks. I mixed powerade/water half in half and gave to them. The next morning all was well. Only had 1 that didn't survive the trip. They also gave me extra chicks of each breed. Would I buy from them again, definitely yes. read more
10 years ago
I ordered chicks from MMH, when they got to the US Post Office they called and said they were here, before we could get there the post office gave my chicks to someone else! I didn't know what to do so I called MMH and they said not to worry...:) they would take care of of it and send my order again. I was so worried and they put my worries right out of my head. Some of the chicks I had on order were out till next year BUT, MMH filled my exact order and had them to me in ONE week. Thank you Kim and MMH, I WILL definitely order chicks again from MMH. All chicks arrived healthy and I have not lost one in the first week, all are thriving! read more
7 years ago
I ordered 20 cayuga ducks and they shipped the next Monday. One weird thing is they actually shipped from metzer farms in California but were more expensive if you bought through metzer. They shipped via USPS priority 2 day. They were packaged very well and I was gladly surprised to see they had 2 cups on the side filled with gro gel. All 20 ducklings survived and all but one were very lively. I had also purchased quik chik so I immediately introduced them to that along with food and they ate and drank nonstop for a couple hours. The one that wasn't so lively quickly perked up. All around a great experience and would purchase from them again. read more
7 years ago
I ordered chicks and 2 buff ducklings BEFORE I read these reviews and freaked!!! Luckily my ducklings showed up (shipped Monday and received early Wednesday) happy and healthy! They were well protected and had a nice comfy, padded bed of hay with a heat pack that wasn't hot but was still warm. I ordered the optional green gel and they definitely ate it. They jumped right into the brooder when I got home and were ready to play with my other ducklings. I am very pleased with my bright, happy, healthy girls! I also ordered chicks that will ship in the future, so hopefully they will also arrive just as well. read more
1 year ago
My favorite hatchery! I have been ordering from Murray Mcmurray for about 25 years. chickens, ducks, goslings, guineas and turkeys. They have all been healthy, wonderful birds over the years. There have been a handful of times when the weather was a bit cold for shipping, and the birds had a stressful trip, but that's no fault of the hatchery. just timing and weather. I highly recommend Murray McMurray, as their birds are always healthy! I like the option to vaccinate and I have always gotten exactly what I've ordered, along with bonus roosters when applicable! read more
Murray McMurray Hatchery - livestocksupply - Updated July 2026
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