Substitutions & Omissions

Substitutions & Omissions Policy

At Chesapeake Farm & Hatchery, we make every effort to fulfill orders exactly as placed and provide the specific breeds you select. Because we work with live animals and natural hatch cycles, occasional substitutions or omissions may be necessary to ensure the health and quality of your chicks.

Why substitutions or omissions may occur
Chick availability can vary due to natural hatch rates, breed-specific outcomes, and health or quality concerns identified at hatch. In rare cases, a selected breed may not be available in sufficient numbers. When this happens, we prioritize sending healthy chicks rather than compromising quality.

How substitutions are handled
If a breed becomes unavailable, we may substitute with the closest possible match. Substitutions are typically similar in size, temperament, and egg-laying ability so they align with your original selection and flock needs.

Price adjustments
If a substitution results in a price difference, the difference will be refunded to your original payment method within 10 business days.

When we will contact you
If we are unable to fulfill more than half of your order, we will contact you before proceeding. At that time, you may choose to select a new hatch date or cancel your order for a full refund in accordance with our cancellation policy.

Important notes
Minor substitutions or omissions may occur without prior notice when necessary to protect chick health. We do not substitute breeds that are significantly different in purpose or temperament unless discussed with you. Our Live Arrival Guarantee remains in effect for all shipped orders.