Mainly by keeping an eye on hen weight. My assumption is that smaller hens laying the same weight of eggs per week are going to need less feed to support their own body. Kind of like a smaller engine in good working order burns less fuel at a stop light. That and including genetics from standard breeds that already have an established norm. Some of my birds were chosen to add color. Some were chosen for feed conversion. my idea is to casually cull ofspring that turn out huge. While hopefully keeping a variety of egg and feather colors. So keeping primarily those roosters that come from small hens that lay lots of eggs. Of course I don’t know much about genetics. So it could be I am way off.
and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.
to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC! You certainly have a variety! 
