Are you a fan of production hens or not? If not, why?

[sniper338]

Im a heritage barred rock fan. Never had problems with them like Ive had with any other breeds.

 

[Pampered chicken girl]

I agree with @Tookie, I have 1 red sexlink pullet and I wouldn't buy another just because of what I've heard

 

[MysteryChicken]

I'm not a fan of them at all.
Because they lay so many eggs they are more prone to health issues, especially reproduction ones. I've dealt with many illnesses with high production breeds.

X2

Though, I've only got one currently, & gonna cull.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

I only have one girl that is 100% production, my Calico Princess. Super friendly and lays great even at 3. Only health issues I've noticed is lots of meat spots, nearly every egg, amd her chicks fail to be healthy. So no breeding her, but she hasn't shown any issues of health herself besides the the meatspots

 

[Farmlife16]

For less reproduction issues try looking for breeds that don't lay as many eggs. Also look for heritage breeds.

I'm thinking that's what I'll have to do.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I am fond of their personalities and their egg laying abilities. I am not find of the reproductive issues to which they are prone.

 

[StinkyAcres]

Expect production breeds to live about 2-3 years. They're fine for farmers who rotate their flocks and cull regularly, but not so nice for most backyard chicken keepers.

I've had more Easter Eggers than any breed and they've had the least amount of health issues. They lay a decent amount of eggs and continue to do so for 6+ years.

 

[JedJackson]

Expect production breeds to live about 2-3 years. They're fine for farmers who rotate their flocks and cull regularly, but not so nice for most backyard chicken keepers.

I've had more Easter Eggers than any breed and they've had the least amount of health issues. They lay a decent amount of eggs and continue to do so for 6+ years.

Easter eggers are excellent. Mine have always been healthy and good layers.

 

[JedJackson]

But be warned of the newbie Easter eggers like starlight green eggers. These are bred with production varieties and will wear out faster than the older type of bearded Easter eggers. It's really hit or miss with all the newbies, depending on the parentage.

 

[Farmlife16]

I only have one girl that is 100% production, my Calico Princess. Super friendly and lays great even at 3. Only health issues I've noticed is lots of meat spots, nearly every egg, amd her chicks fail to be healthy. So no breeding her, but she hasn't shown any issues of health herself besides the the meatspots

Thanks for sharing!