Small-scale and backyard egg producers are complaining over transport mortality in chicks shipped by small specialist hatcheries using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).  The agency has come under criticism for delays following a change in management that has emphasized reduction in cost.

Dr. Robin Ganzert President and CEO of the American Humane Association emphasized the need for efficiency, speed and humane handling of chicks.  The extent of the problem of chick mortality was highlighted in an edition of the Portland Press Herald. The New York Times referred to the problem as “the chicks in the mail”. 

The law of unintended consequences has resulted in the USPS serving as an agent to suppress Salmonellosis.