Recent content by professor_yellow

I like the tin cause there are enough small farm sites being demolished for development yiu can get it pretty cheap. I construct the complete roof system on the ground and lift it into place. Square it up, and use Simpson Tie clips to fasten into place. For the frame I use 2x6 ripped down the...

You have to show him he is not the boss. My barred rock started getting cocky (pun intended), and following my kids then pecking thier leg. Then on another day I leaned over to collect eggs and he pecked me on the temple ( he was elevated on a board). I backhanded him and he fell between two...

I like to build my houses 6 feet wide. Done that for a long time. Then just go multiples of 4 feet. this way you can do the 8 foot roof gris with overhang. I put the door typically on the 6 foot end. Nest boxes by the door. Poosting poles at the other end, with a scean opening below the...

In the early stages of growth and development, chicks grow rapidly by the day. Your replacement may be a few days younger. Typically a Barred rock will be a faster gainer than the Rhode islands at the same age. The only real concern I would be watching for is if the others begin to pick on...

All very good reminders here, but some added information. A few of the hatcheries ( Metzer Farms for one) is going to a heat pack under the floor of the box for smaller orders (where they would have to add in birds for warmth before). Talk to your intended hatchery about those. Another point...

You did not say how many you are looking to get, but I would say go with the chicks for your little ones to watch grow. Worth a lot for them to appreciate living creatures. If you only want a couple, get them from your local feed store. a handful of standard breed pullets will make great pets...

Glar to hear Silkie Chicken.

Quote: Exactly what I am thinking. There is enough small flock owners here in any locale. One ton is only 40 bags. I go through 50 pounds of layer pellets a week as it is, and another 50 of turkey grower and another of all purpose. this is with 13 pekind and layer ducks, never mind the 25...

I think a Brazilian wax job might be best for the breeder hens. That stubble always a sore subject.

I sell my duck eggs for 5.00 a dozen, and chicken eggs for 3.00 a dozen. I just started selling a rainbow pack which is 6 duck eggs and 6 chicken eggs. The ducks are a mix of pinkish and green ones, and the chicken eggs are brown. Gives the customer the best of both eggs in one convenient...

There has been somce fantastic discussions here about cross breeding and other strins to get away from the Cornish cross scenario. I am getting some Black Broilers from Ideal, and some White Rock pullets. My questions are as follows: 1. Does anyone know if the Black Broilers still are the...

I had black sex links years ago and their production dropped right off after 2 years. I would go with Blaxk Austrolorps for steady egg production with your RIRs, and its a nice mix too. i have four year old hens that I adopted that give me an egg every other day, whem the new Hamshires,( same...

When I was 10, an old farmer showed me a method that is bar none. Snap the neck, by ringing and a clean quick jerk. Is not traumatic for the bird and release of adrenaline can always be tasted in the meat unless you soak it long. Hold the bird in your arms long enough for it to calm down and...

I had my first order from Ideal in December. Twenty five pullets, and no extras. Two of the 25 are roos, but I will keep one for breeding purposes. They were at the Post office next morning at 08:00. Healthy and vigorous chicks. I have another order of Black Broilers and white rocks...

Best layers day in and day out has been RIRs for me. I really believe any of the standard brown egg laying breeds will do a pretty good job for you. I htink it really boils down to temperment and character. Still, I am biased to the reds, which were my first chickens ever back in the day.