Growing larger chickens

[Suuuzy]

Hello,

We have a Barred Rock, an Easter Egger, a Black Australorp, a Sexlink and a Cream Legbar. They're eating Nutrena Organic Layer crumble with grit and oyster shells and the occasional veggies from the kitchen, but they don't seem to be getting very big. They're eggs are a fine size but I was wondering if I'm missing something. Is there something that I can do to boost their size a bit? Or is it just me. There is a cochin in this photo so I'm not referring to her and these are being raised strictly for eggs.

 

[Patinas]

I guess I'm wondering why you would want them larger if they are healthy and laying decent eggs? I have a variety of breeds in my flock and I've noticed hens of the same breed, bought at the same time/age, are different sizes. In some instances the size difference is dramatic!

For example, I have 3 Welsummers that are all 3 different sizes; Large, Med & Small but all are doing fine and laying beautiful eggs. All bought at the same time out of the same brood.

Also have two Brahmas, one is large and one is small but they are the same age, again, out of the same brood.

You don't want fat chickens because from what I've read, that brings it's own health issues so I'm of the opinion that a chicken will grow to whatever size it gets to. I think it's all genetics since my flock all eat the same things and yet there are size differences.

In my opinion, if they're healthy and laying nice eggs, I wouldn't worry about their size. Just kick back and enjoy the yummy eggs!

 

[Folly's place]

Most chickens from most hatcheries are not bred to meet show standards, but rather for egg production. Selecting for very large usually comes with lower egg production genetically, not a goal of commercial production. I like big birds too, and sometimes get nice big birds from a hatchery, but often not. My limited experiences with show bred chicks bears this out; beautiful to look at, poor egg production. I have twice gotten very nice white Chanteclers from Cackle, and had nice Blue laced red Wyandottes from MurrayMcMurray. And fat is bad; fed a balanced diet, chickens will reach their genetic potential, so more food won't produce larger frames. Mary

 

[Suuuzy]

Thank you Folly's and Patinas. All of that is good to know. I appreciate you taking the time.