I need help with the math (MEAT BIRDS)

[Redfeathers]

I think I'm going to try and raise some Cornish X meat birds. I am going to order 30 straight run from Mcmurray and split the cost between myself and two friends. Ten birds each. I need the experts here to tell me how much feed is for that many birds. I already have the cost of ordering and shipping figured out and the cost of processing an 8 pound bird. Any thoughts on feed costs or hints on how to save some money??

Thank you in advance for your time and help.

 

[silkiechicken]

Well, that depends on how much they eat. Mine seem to eat about 10 lbs of feed each in 8 weeks, if I am very careful at keeping feeders high so they have to stand to eat, and don't spill feed everywhere. For 10, I'd figure 110 lbs of feed if they are kept warm and don't waste too much food. Maybe less depending on their conditions. I get mine to be about 6 lbs dressed, so about 8 lbs alive or so.

Best advice on saving money is to make sure you don't end up with feed on the floor. Keep the feeder HIGH so they have to stand to eat. It also prevents them from being lazy bums and just sitting and eating.

 

[Ang]

Our first year, we did 10 birds and we went through 100lbs of feed. So silkiechicken's math is dead on.

Also it helps to limit feed them. Don't let them eat free choice but instead feed them twice a day. I don't remember when exactly we start doing that. Sorry. If you don't, though, they will eat nonstop.

 

[silkiechicken]

I actually feed 24/7 all the way though 8 weeks. I let them free range starting at 4 weeks. Didn't have a problem with legs on the strain I got so was very happy with that. They didn't go far but I found that if they are forced to stand all the way up and stretch to eat, they tend to regulate themselves better than when they can just sit on the floor and pig out all day long.

 

[mdbucks]

http://www.welphatchery.com/cornish_rock_care.asp

 

[Redfeathers]

This is one of those situations where I have to step back and analyze a little more. Is 30 too many to start with? I figured that in such a short time frame it wouldn't be a difficult thing to do.

 

[mdbucks]

I hope 30 is a good starting # when do you plan to do yours, I was thinking 25 in April/May/June so they are not in the Hottest part of summer. Start yours now and let me know how it works out, and I can adjust my numbers from there!

 

[Redfeathers]

MD

I just read that they have to be warm, so I am thinking April now instead of right away. I was going to get them started in my little barn and then put them in a sheltered pen... just like anything, the more you read about it, the more confusing it gets. I don't want to make this a big deal, it's only two months from start to finish, but I don't want to screw up and kill them off either...I may have to wait for warmer weather or set up some sort of heat in the pen. I'll keep you posted on what I decide. Pending the voices in my head reaching a conclusion.

 

[silkiechicken]

It's not that bad, just like regular chicks times 100 for mess. I would be more concerned about heat then cold. If you get them in april, what temps do you have in june? When they are 6-8 weeks, they can die of heat stroke very easily. I finish the last of mine when highs are in the 60's, maybe hitting 70 at most.

 

[Wildsky]

Quote:
Hey MD - Throw in 10 for me won't you - Once they're all done and ready I'll send some dry ice and a cooler for you to mail them to me!