Frequently Asked Questions

About our Hatchery and our chickens

  1. What sets Chesapeake Farm Hatchery apart in terms of quality?
  • At Chesapeake (located in Preston, MD), quality is our cornerstone. We prioritize the health and well-being of our poultry, ensuring they are raised in state-of-the-art, humane conditions. Our founder, Chad Sims, is dedicated to providing you with top-notch, healthy chicks that meet and exceed industry standards.
  1. Do you offer guarantees on your poultry?
  • Yes, we stand by the quality of our poultry with a 100% Live Arrival Guarantee. We take extensive measures to prepare your order correctly and guarantee you’ll receive a full count of live, healthy chicks. Check our guarantees page for more details on our commitment to customer satisfaction.
  1. What breeds does Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery offer?
  • Chesapeake offers a diverse selection of poultry breeds to suit various preferences. From rare breeds to popular favorites, our hatchery provides a range of options. Explore our breed information page for details on each breed’s characteristics.
  1. How does Chesapeake ensure the well-being of its poultry during shipping?
  • We take our chicken shipping seriously. Chicks are shipped via USPS Priority Mail on the day of hatch, and we add Gro Gel to their boxes for nourishment during transit. While we cannot control USPS tracking accuracy, our extensive experience minimizes risks, and we provide guidance for a smooth transition from our hatchery to your home.
  1. Can I pick the specific breeds I want in my order?
  • Absolutely! You can customize your order by selecting the chicken breeds you desire. However, some breeds, especially rare ones, may have limited availability. Place your order early to secure your preferred breeds on your desired ship date.
  1. How does Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery ensure the humane treatment of its poultry?
  • Our commitment to humane conditions is paramount. We have brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide a clean, open-air environment for our chickens. Fresh air, clean water, and sustainable practices are fundamental to our approach.
  1. What if I encounter issues with my order after it arrives?
  • We’ve got you covered. If you experience any challenges, especially within the first 24 hours, please report them promptly. We offer a Live Arrival Guarantee and will work with you to address any concerns regarding the health and condition of your poultry.
  1. Why should I choose Chesapeake for my poultry needs?
  • Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery is a family-owned business dedicated to providing you with high-quality, healthy chicks. Our founder’s passion for poultry, combined with our commitment to humane conditions, makes us the ideal choice for those seeking top-tier poultry for their backyard flocks.
  1. What is Marek’s disease, and why should I have my chicks vaccinated?
  • Marek’s is a widespread disease affecting domestic chickens in all sections of the world. Young chickens under 16 weeks of age are most susceptible. There is no treatment for Marek’s once the birds are infected. Chicks should be vaccinated as close to the time of hatch as possible. Vaccinating your birds for Marek’s is an important step in strong poultry management. Choose the Marek’s Vaccine option on the order page to ensure a healthy flock prior to shipping!
  1. Will I need a USDA certification seal on my packing slip?
  • Each order shipping confirmation email has an NPIP (National Poultry Improvement Plan) VS Form 9-3 attached.
  1. Is Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery certified by the NPIP? 
  • Yes. Our NPIP certification number is 51-770.  The NPIP, or National Poultry Improvement Plan, is a voluntary program overseen by the USDA that monitors flocks and hatcheries. At the basic level, a chicken hatchery with an NPIP certification has been tested and found to be clean of Salmonella, Mycoplasma and low-path Avian Influenza diseases.
  1. How can I get in touch with Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery for additional assistance?
  • Feel free to reach out to us or call us at 410-635-1970 for any inquiries or assistance. We value our customers and are here to ensure your experience with Chesapeake exceeds your expectations.