Does it mean anything when they lay down with legs out, not under?

[walbarbsa]

Terence:

In November I ordered chicks from McMurtry. In that batch I received two Rock Cornish types -- I found out later -- after they grew too fast to stand up, that they are for eating and not eggs. I was told not to expect them to live much past 12 weeks of age as their hearts just can't support their rapid growth.

One died early on and the second one had to be put by herself because the other chickens pecked her mercilessly even though she was much bigger than they were. She was clumsy, poor thing. One morning, I found her DOA.

I'm hoping that's not the case with you as you've received some advice on how to feed, etc. Good luck.

Barb

 

[terence]

Hi,

Yes, I'll gladly cut back on the feeding, even if these particular birds are more suited to eating than laying, if only 'cause I've got no wish to let them suffer.

How do I cut back on feeding them? How much is too much/too little?

Thanks!!

 

[countrybum]

My cornish cross do the same thing. I would not worry.

 

[lisahaschickens]

some of mine lay like that all the time... particularly when sunbathing or basking in the heat of their heat lamp (when they still used one). They do look dead, but they're fine. It's normal. However, I don't know about meaties, and so there may be some other problems there for you as others have mentioned. But as far as the lying on their sides, that's normal. Check my blog (link in my signature) for pics of one of mine that is doing it. It is the second to most recent post.

 

[AHappychick]

well only one is a pullet the other is a roo, and they will not live to laying age with out intervention of some sort.