Age to Process Muscovies

[chicken_boy_Kurt]

I have scourged the internet for information. The only thing I found is that one strain of scovies (the strain I'm potentially purchasing) grows to 12 lbs in 12 weeks. I don't want a 12 lb bird... When do you guys process your scovies? And how large are they? How old should the scovies my 4-H club might be raising be? Thanks for any responses.

 

[CelticOaksFarm]

If you are talking the French white Scovy, yes they can get that big. Check out Moose Manor Farms, she is here on BYC also. Great info on processing and recipes too.

 

[chicken_boy_Kurt]

Thank you! The site said 12 weeks, though I don't think it would be best for some of the younger members of my 4-H club to be handling such a large bird. Is it okay to process them younger?

 

[jdywntr]

You can process them younger or older. The ages given are for when they will have less pin feathers. I processed my first when it was about 5 months and there were some pin feathers and the rest at about 7 months but I skinned them.

Muscovy are full feathered at 14-16 weeks. Good luck to your 4-H'ers