I've got a batch of 25 CX cockerels coming in a month. It will be my first attempt at raising meat birds. I chose males-only because I want larger, roasting-type birds. Looking for any M.O. or special tips. Wondering about a couple things:
I've got a brooder with a wire-floor for the manure to fall through. I've read that wire can be hard on heavy broilers. Will it be ok to use this for the first 3 weeks or so until I put them outside?
I have access to free stale bread. Any advantage/disadvantage to feeding that the last few days or week to put a little more fat on the carcass? Or maybe feeding a little bread all along to offset cost of feed?
Any significant danger in letting these things go 8-10 weeks, provided feed is accurately restricted?
Any insight or experience you can share is appreciated. Thanks.
I've got a brooder with a wire-floor for the manure to fall through. I've read that wire can be hard on heavy broilers. Will it be ok to use this for the first 3 weeks or so until I put them outside?
I have access to free stale bread. Any advantage/disadvantage to feeding that the last few days or week to put a little more fat on the carcass? Or maybe feeding a little bread all along to offset cost of feed?
Any significant danger in letting these things go 8-10 weeks, provided feed is accurately restricted?
Any insight or experience you can share is appreciated. Thanks.