- Sep 4, 2010
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I want it all! I'm a big fan of organic permaculture farming and wish to raise meat birds for my family (perhaps 25 birds a year) in my backyard. Ideally I'd be raising 4-5 birds at any one time (could be somewhat fewer depending on what I find out about our laws). So much of what I've read about meat production starts off with something that basically boils down to: "it's imperative to start stuffing store-bought grains, proteins, medicines and additives down your bird's thoat as soon as possible."
NOT what I'm after at all!!
I guess the questions I have are: has anyone had good success in raising meat birds without a lot of commercial products, and which breeds do the best for meat production without them? I don't have to wind up with the biggest, plumpest birds on the block, but I don't want something so skinny and stringy it's inedible, either.
Of course, like everyone else, I'd love a dual purpose bird so I could also raise a few of the same breed for eggs. Anyone, anyone?
I guess the questions I have are: has anyone had good success in raising meat birds without a lot of commercial products, and which breeds do the best for meat production without them? I don't have to wind up with the biggest, plumpest birds on the block, but I don't want something so skinny and stringy it's inedible, either.
Of course, like everyone else, I'd love a dual purpose bird so I could also raise a few of the same breed for eggs. Anyone, anyone?
