As a lurker and someone making the switch from hatchery birds to (hopefully) well bred heritage birds here are my two cents.
I am not certain that I am going to have what it takes to be a poultry breeder, but I want to give it a shot. I do know that I appreciate beautifully bred birds. Why...
I am no expert, but I have fowl pox everywhere every year. (This year I vowed to vaccinate all incoming birds.) if the spots multiply it is pox. Not much to be done except watch for secondary infection or wet pox. Do they have sores inside the mouth? That is bad news and I would ( in hindsight)...
I have no doubt! :) Ok, maybe not Cornish for a breeding project, but I must own a couple just because they are awesome looking birds. They can be hangers on in my layer flock .
Which breeds do you recommend to a beginner? I have room for one more breed in addition to my New Hamps.
Yes, your lurkers are reading and learning! We are very thankful that you choose to share so much with us. Happy fourth! I will buy you an online beer! *grin