i will draw your birds if you want me to

i have goose pics on my profile too if you wanna see those ?
1757616005344.png
 
adorable im trying to confince my dad to let us get some bantam cochins but my brother works at the hatchery doesnt know how the flock would like them but i really WANT bantams we are already getting
1 french black copper maran
1 salmon favorelles
1 blue cochin
1 blue laced red wyandotte
1 ameraucana
1 white naked neck

in february
but i really want bantams in june



Professional Case for Bantam Cochins and Silkies


Purpose:
I want bantam Cochins and Silkies to enhance the flock with gentle, docile birds that integrate well, contribute to egg production, and bring diversity in temperament and appearance. Their calm, non-aggressive nature makes them ideal for a mixed-species environment, while their ornamental features (Cochins’ fluffy plumage and Silkies’ soft, fur-like feathers) add visual appeal.





Target Age for Integration:


  • Pullets at 12–16 weeks: Optimal for socialization. They are sufficiently robust to tolerate minor pecking, capable of regulated thermoregulation, and beginning to approach point-of-lay.
  • Avoid chicks <8 weeks due to vulnerability to aggression.
  • Adults >20 weeks can be integrated but require a more prolonged acclimation period due to established pecking order.




Stepwise Integration Protocol


Step 1: Quarantine & Observation (Days 0–7)


  • Place birds in a separate pen within sight and sound of the flock, ensuring visual and auditory acclimation.
  • Provide:
    • Minimum 1 sq ft per bantam of floor space in pen.
    • Elevated perches at 6–12 inches for Silkies, 8–14 inches for Cochins.
    • Hiding areas using small boxes or covered shelters.
  • Monitor for: respiratory distress, abnormal droppings, or feather abnormalities.

Step 2: Neutral Territory Introduction (Days 8–14)


  • Supervised visits in a neutral area outside the main run.
  • Introduce feeders and waterers spaced ≥2 ft apart to prevent competition.
  • Observe flock interactions: minimal pecking and stress behaviors indicate readiness for extended integration.

Step 3: Gradual Social Integration (Days 15–21)


  • Extend interaction duration gradually: start with 15–30 min, increasing daily.
  • Maintain environmental enrichment: dust baths, foraging substrate, and perches to allow natural behaviors.

Step 4: Full Flock Integration (After Day 21)


  • If birds display normal social behavior (preening together, shared perches, no persistent aggression), allow full coop/run access.




Care and Maintenance Plan


  • Nutrition:
    • High-quality layer feed (18–20% protein); supplement with oyster shell for calcium and grit for digestion.
    • Provide occasional greens, mealworms, and scratch grains to encourage foraging.
  • Handling & Socialization:
    • Daily gentle handling to maintain calm temperament.
    • Monitor for signs of bullying or feather pecking; isolate briefly if needed.
  • Health Monitoring:
    • Daily inspection of eyes, nostrils, vent, and legs.
    • Check Cochins for feather matting and Silkies for feather cleanliness; both are prone to moisture-related skin issues.
  • Environmental Considerations:
    • Maintain dry, well-ventilated bedding (straw or pine shavings).
    • Ensure dust-bathing areas for feather maintenance and parasite control.




Professional Guarantee:


With this stepwise, breeder-informed integration and care plan, I can confidently ensure that bantam Cochins and Silkies will:


  • Thrive physically and socially.
  • Integrate smoothly into the mixed flock.
  • Contribute both personality and modest egg production.
  • Remain healthy and stress-free under consistent monitoring.
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom