Choosing who to cull

[aart]

Out of my flock of 83 birds, I’m only getting about a dozen eggs. I know winter slows them down, but it wasn’t much better in the summer. I have various breeds ranging from 4 months - 6 years. What are your guys’ methods for choosing who to thin from the flock? I’m thinking of getting rid of any above 2 years old, and any who is not in good health.

Do you free range? They may be laying in range area.
Sounds like a good plan...depends on your goals and management plan(oh, maybe you don't have one )
I have space for winter quarters for only so many birds, so hatch and cull every year.

 

[Smuvers Farm]

I am working towards having an appropriate banding system in place. I'm happy enough this year to just have almost all of my spring pullets banded. They wear bands on R legs. The older hens "should" be banded on L legs, with any to be culled not wearing bands at all. My flock is small enough that if someone looses a band, I'd realize it. And hopefully know whether it came off right or left leg! But, really, the culls should get a specific color. Perhaps next year is the year I get an organized system in place. Think I'll start a new thread, so I'm not hijacking here.

Tag me when/if you make the new post please.

 

[aart]

Tag me when/if you make the new post please.

Click on her profile, then 'topics started'

 

[Smuvers Farm]

Click on her profile, then 'topics started'

Thank you pooky bear!