Free Range Growth and Maturity

[Mehera]

Hi everyone,

I'm new to the forum and I have a question about whether allowing my chickens to free range, as opposed to having their food in close proximity to them, will affect their rate of maturity. My Barred Rocks are just over 16 weeks and have been free range since I moved them outside 10 weeks ago. They have access to layer food and water in their coop but spend most of the day foraging around my property. Over the weekend, I saw my parents' chickens which are part of the same order (hatched Feb. 19th) and they look significantly larger than mine. Their chickens are contained in an appropriately sized coop and do not free range for the most part. Although they are larger, their combs and waddles do not look as developed or red as mine do. I know my chickens are getting more exercise and I think that this would explain them being smaller but does anyone know how this might affect when they might start laying? I would like to be able to continue to allow them to free range but I'm also looking forward to the prospect of eggs. Any feedback would be appreciated...

 

[sumi]

I found my chickens grow quicker and lay better when I free range them. But mine get fed cracked corn 3 times a day (they come home for food) and they have access to a huge area planted with lusern (alfalfa) and grass.

 

[yinzerchick]

I'm by no means an expert, but I don't think size is the only predictor of health. Like you said, yours are getting more exercise, so they're going to probably be leaner.
I've always free ranged my hens, and like yours, they have access to layer crumbles in the coop. (Where I do put them up at night) I give them a "breakfast treat" everyday. Like oatmeal with yogurt and apple sauce, or rice with over ripe tomatoes, then some scratch in the evening to get them into to their runs and ready to coop up for the night.
I have 8 different breeds and they all look good, but are not the same build. Even some of my hens that are the same breed are either leaner, or "plumper" looking than eachother.
The best growing chicks I've ever had were the ones a mamma hen raised. They grew fast, they're smart, and they forage very well. They were the healthiest chicks I've ever seen.
I don't think you have any thing to worry about, yours are probably just leaner from a more diverse diet and the exercise. In my humble opinion, you'll most likely have the better tasting, and heathier eggs!

 

[Mehera]

Thanks for the feedback.... I really appreciate it!