- May 19, 2009
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Hi Matt,Thanks Karen,
I have raised a few batches of chicks (100 some total) over the past few years ranging from barred rocks, RIR's, dark Cornish and Cornish x's. Right now we have RIR's laying and a started batch of rainbow layers from McMurray hatchery plus a few male sex link chickens that were added to the shipment for warmth. I'm looking at this chicken breeding venture as a hobby at this time. The dairy cows are a job and a half type of occupation and will take 99% of my time. I bought our current RIR's for my 4 year old daughter with hopes that she could sell the eggs but we have little takers for $2 a dozen. Help the little girl out! So I kinda took the birds over and she just helps. It got to be enough for my wife to keep track of the eggs (which we would buy) and subtract the cost of the feed I bought for the birds. So I'm doubtful that we will sell eggs or meat but will likely give some away or to a food bank.
I'm looking to start breeding chickens and I have a lot of questions. First, I want a dual purpose breed but an not exactly sure what I want. Some of the breeds that have crossed my mind are barred rock, Delaware, Golden Campine, and Wyandotte. Second, with little time except for winter, will I be able to develop a breed? I've learned that I should keep track of data as they grow and lay. Third, how do you manage inbreeding and therefore finding new breeding stock? How do the chickens from the hatcheries compare to what I should have?
TIA,
Matt
I was thinking, ...sometimes a dangerous thing .
the farmers on this thread who have already working with a breed which, from a production
standpoint, is working for them. Maybe it will help you create a shortlist of breeds to choose from?
Hellbender has Naked Necks and did well with Australops; Yellow House Farm has White Dorkings.
Who else has what on their farm?
Best,
Karen
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