Hello,
New to the site and we just got our first batch of chicks. We have layers and rocks both in the same brooder until they are old enough to be outside. We were wondering when we should take the Cornish rocks under from the heat lamp and when we butcher them, if we should soak them in ice water then put them in the fridge or fridge them first. Any ideas?
Thanks!
New to the site and we just got our first batch of chicks. We have layers and rocks both in the same brooder until they are old enough to be outside. We were wondering when we should take the Cornish rocks under from the heat lamp and when we butcher them, if we should soak them in ice water then put them in the fridge or fridge them first. Any ideas?
Thanks!
! Pleased to have you with us! I'd say 4 weeks and they might be able to be out from the heat lamp. Cornish Crosses can be butchered pretty much whenever - as small "Cornish game hens" at as young as three weeks. Or you can process at 7-8 weeks as fryers. We take ours longer as we like roast chicken - maybe 10-12 weeks. And some folks raise them to be almost miniature turkeys! Only problem with that is that they have leg problems when they get this big - can't support the weight - and sometimes their hearts just give out. Good luck to you!
