Dairyland Rabbitry and Poultry

02/09/2025

What is structural correctness?
We've got several pages of FREE, printable resources you can use!

Looking for quick view sheep resources? Check out all the topics we have available for view and print!

USSA Resources Web Link:
https://suffolks.org/resources.php

The Suffolk Source (so much more than a "directory"):
https://tinyurl.com/2024SuffolkSource

02/09/2025

As we kick off our 108th hatching season, McMurray Hatchery is proud to announce our APA Certified Flocks for 2025.

This season, our certification has been renewed for our Buff, Partridge, and Silver Penciled Rocks, White Langshans, White Naked Necks, and White Polish flocks. This year, our Dominiques and Lakenvelders are now APA Certified as well.

Why are we excited about our APA Certified flocks? Because each one is a shining example of the high-quality Standard bred chickens that McMurray Hatchery is proud to produce. Having multiple Certified flocks speaks to our legacy as breeders and conservators of quality purebred poultry.

Our APA Certified flocks provide keepers across the country with excellent foundational lines for breeding or exhibition stock. We’re honored to be a part of your chicken journeys from hatch to lay and beyond!

For more information on our APA Certified flocks, check out our blog post here: https://blog.mcmurrayhatchery.com/2025/02/04/2025-apa-certified-breeds/

02/09/2025

🥚 Egg Yolk Colors & What They Mean!

Did you know that the color of an egg yolk can tell you a lot about a chicken's diet? Here’s a quick breakdown:

🔹 Pale Yolks – Diet rich in grains like sorghum & wheat
🔹 Yellow Yolks – Common, from a diet of soy, corn, or alfalfa
🔹 Golden Yolks – High in carotenoids from marigolds & greens
🔹 Orange/Red Yolks – Diet includes red peppers, fresh greens, & shrimp shells
🔹 Green Yolks – Caused by tannins, chlorophyll, or acorns
🔹 Brown Yolks – Diet includes acorns, grapes, or walnuts
🔹 Double Yolks – Common in young hens, completely safe to eat
🔹 Brown/Red Spots – Blood spots from small vessel ruptures, safe to eat

💡 The yolk color is influenced by diet, not egg quality! Which yolk color have you seen the most? Let us know in the comments!



"Agriculture is more than just planting and harvesting—it's a perfect blend of science, innovation, and tradition. From soil health and crop genetics to precision farming and sustainable livestock management, every aspect of farming is backed by scientific discoveries that drive progress.

Let’s explore the fascinating science behind agriculture, uncover new techniques, and grow together with knowledge!

"

02/09/2025

A Message from Hoover’s Hatchery to our Valued Customers:

We regret to inform you that we are facing some operating challenges as we transition to a new website and ordering software, and are experiencing a huge influx of orders as a result of high egg prices. Unfortunately, these issues have caused delays and disruptions in processing orders and addressing customer inquiries.

Our customer service team is currently overwhelmed by the volume of requests, and while we are working hard to resolve these matters, we understand that the service you are receiving is not up to the high standards we pride ourselves on.

Please know that we WILL honor all our guarantees and are committed to resolving your issues. However, due to the high demand, it may take a few weeks for us to respond and process your request. We deeply appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

In addition, we want to be transparent about an increase in our prices. Due to a newly instituted US Postal Service surcharge on live bird shipments, we have had to adjust our pricing to continue offering the quality products and service you rely on.

Your satisfaction is all that drives us every day, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience you are experiencing. We are doing everything we can to get back on track and provide you with the level of service you have come to expect from Hoover’s Hatchery.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

Sincerely,

The Hoover’s Hatchery Team

02/07/2025

I mean... 🤷‍♀️

02/07/2025

02/07/2025

This egg money is going to have people getting the wrong idea about my profession. 😂

02/07/2025

Oh snap

Have you all seen this? Comments on their page are not looking good either about orders not arriving and they are not taking calls or returning messages it also states from people

02/07/2025

Yes! 🎯💯💯💯

02/07/2025

Rabbits for Meat: Let’s Talk About It 🐇

When the topic of raising rabbits for meat comes up, many people react with comments like:

“Poor rabbits!”

“How could you eat them?”

“Humans will eat anything these days!”

I get it, raising rabbits for meat can be a hard concept to accept at first. I had the same doubts and questions. But you know what changed my mind?

KNOWLEDGE.

Here’s what I learned that shifted my perspective:

1. Rabbits Were Domesticated for Meat

Historically, rabbits have been raised as a sustainable source of high-quality protein.

They require less space, feed, and resources compared to other livestock.

2. Minimal Waste

Almost every part of the rabbit is usable:

Meat for food.

Fur for crafting or clothing.

Manure as one of the best organic fertilizers.

Organs, feet, and even ears have practical uses.

3. Sustainability at Its Best

Rabbits grow quickly and breed efficiently, making them an excellent choice for small-scale farming.

Their small ecological footprint makes them a sustainable option for meat production.

4. Proper Care and Ethical Practices

I educated myself on breeding, handling, and humane dispatching.

Learning to care for rabbits properly ensures their welfare and health.

I adapted my practices to ensure their needs are met in any climate or condition.

Why Judge Others?

Every meat you buy in stores, pre-packaged and convenient, came from an animal too.

Just because you didn’t witness the process doesn’t make it “better” than those who raise and harvest their own food.

A Choice Rooted in Responsibility

Choosing to raise and harvest food isn’t easy—it requires dedication, respect for the animals, and a commitment to sustainability.

It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. But let’s avoid shaming those who take this route to provide for their families.

At the end of the day, it’s about:

Sustainability.

Respect for the animals we raise.

Providing for our loved ones

02/07/2025

😂😂

02/06/2025

Cathy Szychulda has won Best of Breed at 6 ARBA Conventions, winning with multiple different varieties of Rex as well as winning Best Colored and White Fur. ...

02/06/2025

Danielle Harubin, Red Rex breeder, teaches how she breeds for perfection with red color.___________________Do you want to see more videos like this? Like th...

02/06/2025

Do you want to see more videos like this? Like this video & Subscribe to The Rabbit Show so you don't miss our next rabbit educational video.We often get as...

02/06/2025

02/05/2025

Educational Post:

Many of you have asked what is the roll around my rabbits neck? My son calls it the double chin 😂 Today we’re going to talk about what they are and their uses.

Dewlaps- more commonly seen in females than males, has a purpose. This flap of skin can be used for mothers to pull fur for their babies when creating a nest. This fold can range in size and is usually more noticeable in large breeds. Dewlaps develop as they mature, and can even signify that they have reached the age of reproduction or sexual maturity. (Please do not use this as your only tool for noting a rabbit is ready to breed.)

You may notice that spaying or neutering your rabbit may make the dewlap less pronounced.

If your rabbit has this flap it does not mean that they are overweight or obese. If the dewlap is too large and interferes with everyday functions you may need to see a vet though.

Problems to look for:
Red irritated skin, bald patches or hair loss, wetness, oversized (in the way of eating/ grooming). All of these can be a concern and you may need to take action to help your bun.

Show me all of those double chin babies below ⬇️