inherited flock, plz help!

[calirabbit]

hello, i recently moved to a small ranch my step dad inherited when his father passed away 8 years ago. since his passing the original flock of 30+ free range birds has dwindled to 5 hens and 3 roos, i have no idea what breeds they originated from or theyre age. they are completly feral.

in an attempt to replenish the flock we purchased some bantams n red pullets from the local feed store. they are about 4 weeks old now.

i really need some advice on how to manage these chickens, im only finding about 1 egg per day and none of the hens seem broody because they never are sitting on the eggs. id like to have a decent amount of eggs to support our family ( 7 people, 2 households) and be able to harvest meat birds as well.

i am an experienced vet tech in small animal medicine, with a college degree so im not completely stupid, but ive never attempted anything like ranch life before.

 

[chfite]

Given the scope of your plans, reading all the offerings from the extension services and some of good quality web sites should get you going.

Chris

 

[rockthecoop]

Well, first get rid of some of the roos. Three roosters is way to much for five hens.
Then find out how old the current hens are. When they get past two years, they usually stop laying. With the new chicks, do you have them in a large enough brooder? Some times they get over crowded and they need more space. What are you feeding them? I suggest purina medicated feed, and a months before movung them out, non medicated.

In reply to the eggs and meat question, I would get Dual Purpouse birds like the Australorp, Barred Rocks and White Rocks are amazing layers as well as being meat birds. Or, just get Amazing layers and some meat birds.

How big is the current coop? How many chickens can it house? I think it is 4sq. Feet per large bird. Keep in mind how much you can house, otherwise your husband or you is going to have to build add ons like mine.

I would Get rid of two of the roosters and all the old hens and start new. If you prefer, you can get rid of all of the roosters, but keep in mind that with a rooster all you need is a broody hen or an incubator and you won't have to buy more chicks ever. If you need more spacifics, just ask. I might not know everythign, but I do know one or two things about chickens!

Overall, Chickens are a joy to have, and MUCH better than televison. As you get better at raising them, you can get showbirds. Eggs and meat are nice too!