Hello,
I am in my 6th year of raising chickens and am finding that I am loosing chickens quicker than expected. My chickens are pets and so it's very hard for my family when they die. I read that chickens will live 8-10 years on average. I am looking for new chicks this spring and want to invest in healthier, stronger breeds. Any suggestions? LF vs Bantam?
My concern is that some farmers are focused on pure breeding and thus create weaker lines. Does this mean that stronger healthier birds come from specific farmers that are more conscientious?
Some info FYI
Feed - Scratch n Peck, Fresh greens daily.
I have an enclosed back yard where they are protected from predators.
3 Buff orpingtons - 1 died, 1 had major surgery but survived, 1 healthy
3 Silver Laced Wyandottes - 2 died, 1 living
3 lavender Orpingtons - 1 died, 2 living
I am in my 6th year of raising chickens and am finding that I am loosing chickens quicker than expected. My chickens are pets and so it's very hard for my family when they die. I read that chickens will live 8-10 years on average. I am looking for new chicks this spring and want to invest in healthier, stronger breeds. Any suggestions? LF vs Bantam?
My concern is that some farmers are focused on pure breeding and thus create weaker lines. Does this mean that stronger healthier birds come from specific farmers that are more conscientious?
Some info FYI
Feed - Scratch n Peck, Fresh greens daily.
I have an enclosed back yard where they are protected from predators.
3 Buff orpingtons - 1 died, 1 had major surgery but survived, 1 healthy
3 Silver Laced Wyandottes - 2 died, 1 living
3 lavender Orpingtons - 1 died, 2 living