Buff Orps or Delawares in a tractor?

[vermontgal]

I'm interested in raising Buff Orpington or Delaware cockerels in a chicken tractor for meat. I already have a 4x6 a-frame tractor, and don't really want to build another one.

Questions:

• I like a pretty small table bird - 3 to 3.5 lbs is plenty (dressed). How old would each of these breeds need to be to reach that weight?

• How many would I be able to raise in my 4x6 tractor? Some of the hatcheries (Meyers) have a price break at 11 birds. I'd be pleased if that worked.

Thanks for any experience or opinions.

 

[Bossroo]

It will take the BO or Del. upwards of 6 months to reach a 3-3.5 pound carcass. On the other hand , the Cornish X will reach a 3-3.5 pound carcass in 6 weeks on the same amount of feed. The real difference will be TIME ...more times moving the tractor, more trips to the feed store, crowing, etc.

 

[max13077]

How could you kill the buffy!? They're so sweet.

X's on the other hand....

 

[vermontgal]

I'm not interested in raising Cornish X, but thanks for those comments... I'm also thinking about the colored rangers (JM Hatchery).

Anyone have insights on my original questions?!