Capon adventure

[McButterpants]

If there is anyone out there who has ever done La Fleche before I would love to see pics. I believe I have at least a few slips, but am not sure how to ID because they have such small "combs" to begin with.

 

[chickmashnoon]

Waiting for McButterpants's answer . . . I've got some La Fleche and hoping to be brave enough to try this next spring.

 

[naillikwj82]

Successful caponizinng results in a lack of comb and wattle developement, what remains of the comb and wattles is light pink to greyish in color. Another indicator would be tails feathers are sloped down, not sticking up. So if the comb and wattles are turning bright red = slip, Tail feathers up like a rooster= slip. Hope this helps.

 

[McButterpants]

Yes this is what I've read, and at this point I think I've read just about everything out there it took a good bit of nerve to try this, but like the original poster I was very determined. What I'm trying to find out is how early I can reliably spot a slip - there are some good shots of slips in the 20-24 week range on this forum. What I want to do is cull out these birds as soon as possible or find out if there is value in raising them as slips to a certain age to get the best return in terms of flavor and tenderness. And by the way hats off to all of you who are already doing this and exploring the possibility, thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!

 

[partsRheavy]

The best thing is to take recognized slips out of the flock as soon as they start being recognizable with reddening of comb/wattles. When there's any question, keep a close eye on their behavior.

If they start crowing or competing with roosters, they're obviously "slipping away...."

The next thing they do of course involves bothering the hens...and they're rather relentless when they do this.

 

[kimmy88]

I want to try some capons but where can I buy the instrument? Can I use Rhod Island Red, New Hampshire, jersey Giant? What breed did you use? At what age is proper age to capon? Thank you, Kim

 

[PrettyLacedFeathers]

Does anyone know of someone who is experienced with caponizing chickens near orlando, FL?