Is there a curve in weight gain on meaties?

[bnentrup]

Another newbie question, maybe you can see where I am going...

Is there a standard/consistent curve of weight gain on meaties in that at an age of 4-weeks, those who are heaviest in weight will likely be the heaviest at harvest time of 8 weeks? Anyone done these types of weight charts?

If so, I would like to keep back a few of my hens for some breeding experiments, but I would want to modify their diet to preserve for longevity (get them into Jenny Craig) to be able to sustain egg laying for a longer period of time.

Second question; how do you guys leg band for your experiment/monitored birds? What is the best source/practice?

 

[bigredfeather]

I have noticed a spike in growth at 5 weeks. Their feed intake begins to really increase at this age.

 

[uhuh555]

We use colored leg bands, top band indicated bloodline, second indicates year hatched, third indicates birds hatched during April, May and June. Then when we decide which birds to keep for breeding the bands are replaced with numbered open bands that require special pliers to close them. Then the number is recorded on 3x5 cards with all the appropriate information.

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

Quote:
great share thanks!