I realize that some folks might not like this... I'm on a hunt for some facts here though.
I read recently that the feed that is available to us for our backyard birds is the same that is used by the commercial chicken industry. I can't find that darn online article and have been searching endlessly for it. Anyway, it mentioned that the feed was developed to have birds grow as fast, as big, and produce as much as possible in the least amount of time. It implied that it forced them to grow and produce at a rate that wouldn't otherwise be natural for them - putting a strain on them and potentially causing them injury, illness, and a shorter lifespan.
Now, I do understand that chickens, in general, are here for our consumption, and not everyone feels love for them - TO EACH HIS/HER OWN HERE AND I'M NOT JUDGING THOSE THAT FEEL DIFFERENLTY ABOUT THIS... However, for our family, our chickens are with us for company, pets, entertainment, pleasure, and some eggs would be great. We don't need an egg a day from each of them to justify their presence at our home though.
I would love to hear from the folks out there that have some experience and/or insight into these thoughts on feed - preferably based on some sort of legitimate research and/or personal experience.
Thanks for taking the time to read this and reply!
I read recently that the feed that is available to us for our backyard birds is the same that is used by the commercial chicken industry. I can't find that darn online article and have been searching endlessly for it. Anyway, it mentioned that the feed was developed to have birds grow as fast, as big, and produce as much as possible in the least amount of time. It implied that it forced them to grow and produce at a rate that wouldn't otherwise be natural for them - putting a strain on them and potentially causing them injury, illness, and a shorter lifespan.
Now, I do understand that chickens, in general, are here for our consumption, and not everyone feels love for them - TO EACH HIS/HER OWN HERE AND I'M NOT JUDGING THOSE THAT FEEL DIFFERENLTY ABOUT THIS... However, for our family, our chickens are with us for company, pets, entertainment, pleasure, and some eggs would be great. We don't need an egg a day from each of them to justify their presence at our home though.
I would love to hear from the folks out there that have some experience and/or insight into these thoughts on feed - preferably based on some sort of legitimate research and/or personal experience.
Thanks for taking the time to read this and reply!