I’ve been following this thread for a while now and am so glad to see so much enthusiasm for Dorkings! I am new to this breed but not to raising chickens for preservation. I want to concentrate on the LF SC Red Dorking. I am working with stock from 2 different lines, with the hopes of adding a third line next spring or fall.
I have had some trouble with these birds, starting out, and am learning just how different two lines of the same breed of chicken can really be. Temperament has been a BIG issue with stock I got from one breeder. Also, the hens are not laying as well as hoped and most are not making weight at maturity. There is so much work to be done on this breed to get it back up to SOP & the historical descriptions that are out there. Is there anyone here that has had their Dorkings in excess of 10 years? Would love to hear how you have worked with your birds over the years. What are some things other breeders need to know that are unique to this breed?
I have had some trouble with these birds, starting out, and am learning just how different two lines of the same breed of chicken can really be. Temperament has been a BIG issue with stock I got from one breeder. Also, the hens are not laying as well as hoped and most are not making weight at maturity. There is so much work to be done on this breed to get it back up to SOP & the historical descriptions that are out there. Is there anyone here that has had their Dorkings in excess of 10 years? Would love to hear how you have worked with your birds over the years. What are some things other breeders need to know that are unique to this breed?