The hardest part of trying to raise good SOP type chickens is doing all the culling necessary to get to where you can raise a good one.
Ditto.
I thought I was a toughie when I started. The first flock I ever had was processed for meat at a few years old along with some meat birds. Then I didn't keep chickens for a while. Recently I culled every single chicken I had here. THAT was tough. I processed a few for meat and while that is morally satisfying it does take more time and guts-- pun acknowledged. I am going to sound like a real pansy now but I had nightmares for almost two weeks after culling so many birds in so short a time. I did it for business/peace of mind reasons. I think culling the kids' pet chickens as well as chicks was what did it. I understand now why folks cull at such an early age: easier on time and money and space and easier of a task. I don't find any chicken other than the Chantecler has been any good for meat. I was let down every time so it is a big of a waste when I can raise ducks for meat faster and cheaper. I am not keeping chickens for meat anymore. I don't have a problem with anyone else eating them. At this point I have young birds as I am starting over entirely. I can't imagine anyone wants those little birds but I will give CL a try.
