Well, we are taking the plunge into meat production. Our first order of chicks will arrive Feb 3. I have probably a million questions, but only a couple that are pressing! We will be ordering 5 Cornish x (a small number, since I hear mixed things, also unsure how many we can process at once) and 15 "assorted heavies" to be processed a little older and not all at once. Filling out the required minimum with a few Easter Eggers to add to our hens. I am planning to place the brooder box (a Rubbermaid tub) in my shed as it has electric for the heat lamp and screened windows for safe ventilation. I guess I'll have to play it by ear about when to put them outside. I hear about 6-8 weeks, but also hear that I will be butchering the Cornish x then. Seems odd. My main question is the outdoor housing we are beginning construction on. The area is about 80 square feet. The meat birds will go there. (the pullets will go in a tractor near the current coop so they can get to know one another before being combined). Is that enough room for 20 birds? Of course,the cornish x will be processed early, then only 15 birds will be in there. Another question is do they need a place to roost, or just shelter? And how large does that area need to be?
Any and all advice is welcome and much appreciated!
Cindy
Any and all advice is welcome and much appreciated!
Cindy