I was going to put this in the Feeding forum but was hoping to hit more folks that show in this forum. I'm looking to take a few birds to some shows this fall. Most of what I'm taking are from early hatches this year so by November they'll be in the area of 7-10 months old. A few of the older birds (meaning currently around 1 year old) however have lost some feathers from breeding season.. so what I did was move all the girls that will potentially be showing into 2 large pens without the roos so their feathers can grow out. My question is, what can I do to help encourage feather growth/enhance feather quality the next few months? Should I take of their saddles to allow the skin to get more air/have less pressure? A friend suggested the Poultry Conditioner that Manna Pro makes. All of the young birds are still on a 21% protein crumble with Red Cell in the water, plus a scratch consisting of BOSS, oats, bird seed, fresh greens. The older birds are on a 16-17% custom blend of alfalfa, corn, soybeans, and wheat, also with the red cell and scratch. I have easy access to many feed stores in my area. I was thinking of adding in some flax since it's in the poultry conditioner, (I give it to my horses so I have lots of it).
I know showing a 1 1/2 year old bird may potentially have some disadvantages, but if I can get them looking fantastic I'd really love to bring them. They are from well known breeders and are outstanding quality birds (aside from being a little bald!)
Thanks in advance.
I know showing a 1 1/2 year old bird may potentially have some disadvantages, but if I can get them looking fantastic I'd really love to bring them. They are from well known breeders and are outstanding quality birds (aside from being a little bald!)
Thanks in advance.
