Oriental Gamefowl Thread!

[IndianHeaven]

Getting a pair of Malay and pair of Saipan in March... my first orientals. They are coming frim a hatchery with standard brahmas, which I have raised before. Can we talk diet for a mixed flock of youngsters, to avoid leg issues. I feed a combo of Nutrina All Flock, high quality dog food, mixed grains, dried bugs and plenty of fresh grass and alfalfa. And the occasional fruit or veggie treats. Ill post pics as they grow.

 

[cubakid]

The possibility that you will get two of one and two of another is unlikely. You may not even be able to tell the two breeds apart coming from a hatchery.

 

[IndianHeaven]

The possibility that you will get two of one and two of another is unlikely. You may not even be able to tell the two breeds apart coming from a hatchery.

Arent Malay chicks brownish, while Saipan are yellow? Either way, doesnt matter, will be fun.

 

[fowlsessed]

Sure, enjoy them. Even if they don't impress all these guys

Should still prove to be some fun and unique looking birds.

 

[chickletteSarge]

Sure, enjoy them. Even if they don't impress all these guys

Should still prove to be some fun and unique looking birds.

x2
my birds are all hatchery stock from ideal.... they are tons off type but they are my first so idc... beauty is in the eye of the beholder... no orientals as of yet just a pair of yokohamas lol

 

[saladin]

I understand your management point, and that death could result, and I am re-thinking this. However, how does "sickness" play into the picture?

Adult birds have had a lifetime to build up natural immunity to things in their surrounds. Young chicks have not had that same chance.

This also applies to new birds coming on your place. I quarantine all new birds on the ground away from my other birds. Yes, my birds could get something from the new arrivals. However, it is just as likely if not more so that the new birds will get something from mine.

 

[saladin]

x2
my birds are all hatchery stock from ideal.... they are tons off type but they are my first so idc... beauty is in the eye of the beholder... no orientals as of yet just a pair of yokohamas lol

Nothing in the world wrong with starting with hatchery stock. Some is actually quite good from some select hatcheries (I wouldn't tend to include Orientals in that statement). Everybody has to start somewhere.

Remember this though: It cost just as much to care for poor quality stock as it does good stock.

 

[Fentress]

Which breed would you recommend for brooding. I just need an all around good bird that can get the job done. Kraienkoppes seem interesting. I have read that the cockerels are not as agressive as the Old English Game and are watchful of raptors which I have a small problem with. I have lots of free range and keep my birds behind electronet fencing, which does a better job of keeping predators out than chickens in which is OK with me most of the time. Also, in general, are game breed roosters noiser than the Heritage Breeds that I have now (New Hamp. & Speckled Sussex). I suspect that my current hens will not be reliable broodies? I am not sure. I have read that the game breeds are the most reliable. Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Mark

 

[fowlsessed]

And having said what I did about your hatchery birds, don't judge the whole "race" by them. They may be a little off.

 

[fowlsessed]

Which breed would you recommend for brooding. I just need an all around good bird that can get the job done. Kraienkoppes seem interesting. I have read that the cockerels are not as agressive as the Old English Game and are watchful of raptors which I have a small problem with. I have lots of free range and keep my birds behind electronet fencing, which does a better job of keeping predators out than chickens in which is OK with me most of the time. Also, in general, are game breed roosters noiser than the Heritage Breeds that I have now (New Hamp. & Speckled Sussex). I suspect that my current hens will not be reliable broodies? I am not sure. I have read that the game breeds are the most reliable. Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Mark

I think that the Speckled Sussex and New Hampshires should prove to be reliable broodies, actually. Most of them. Depends on strain and individuality a little. But they are known for going broody, and should prove to be good mothers.
As far as noise difference, not much, that I've noticed.
Games are among the best broodies, but other breeds can be great, too.