Good evening, We have acquired some pullets that seem to have been raised in crowded conditions and not very well fed. They are Isa Browns. My question is has anyone experienced this and did they turn out to be good layers anyway? They are getting fed a proper diet now and looked much better in just a few days. I don't want to cull any of my older birds if these don't lay good. Thank you.
I would expect them to fill out and to lay well. However, I wonder if they won't be long lived. Maybe 2-3 years, one should consider culling them. ps. upon further consideration, I really think they probably will be just fine all the way around. The less than ideal feed, may have kept them pretty thin, but not starving them to weakness. There is a difference between being hungry and starving. Once you add good feed, I would expect the turn around to be quick, with no long term effects. I am assuming they were thin, but in good health. Mrs K
I would give them some time to adjust to their new home and see what you think in a few months... If you can wait that long. I wouldn't cull the older ones till I saw how the new ones are doing, but it's not my flock, it is yours. You know what's best for your flock! Good luck with everything and keep us updated!
Be aware though, it might take them a while to start laying for you. Even healthy hens can stop laying for a bit when they move to a new home.