How early can an orpington rooster be culled for the table?

[Laver2k]

Hi there,
We want to hatch our own eggs for the first time. We are aiming for a couple of orpington hens to keep.
We could easily give away extra hens but we live in an urban area and it would be unfair to have any cockerels crowing. My sister's husband would be happy to cull and eat them - but would it be possible for them to be eaten before they start crowing?

 

[Maggiesdad]

Absolutely! Chickens are yummy at any time, whether they are boys or girls.

Here's a great read from the ALBC on how to treat heritage chicken.

If you choose for them to go early, look into spatchcocking them and BBQing them whole - omg so good. Search YellowHouseFarm's posts on BYC about spatchcocks or, youtube... you'll be looking for more to grow out!

 

[RogerShoaf]

Another option would be to capon the cockerels. No crowing, no fighting, just thender and tasty meat far superior to the mush birds in the store.