BackyardJulz
Chirping
My first batch a couple years ago were awful, ugly, eating machines. They just wouldn't get up, eating and pooping al the time. so yuck.
Last fall, I changed it up a little, raised the feeders and waterers off the ground, and gave them a much bigger space to roam, hoping that it would encourage them to get up and walk, and act like chickens! I think they were a healthier bunch, and also fed a lower protein feed to help their bodies and bones keep pace. They also did a lot of the "leg stretching" action, and I think it is simply growing, becoming heavy, and the tendency to just sit there instead of walking around.
They just seemed better overall, and they grew quite large by 7 and 8 weeks when we processed. One monster dressed at almost 8#, so it was about 11# to start.
Very happy with that bunch, so I am at it again this spring- got mine from FamFarm&Home (TSC was OUT!) and they are happy & healthy so far. April 1st or so on the hatch date. I start them on a medicated feed, then switch after we go through that bag.
Good luck with the little eaters!
Last fall, I changed it up a little, raised the feeders and waterers off the ground, and gave them a much bigger space to roam, hoping that it would encourage them to get up and walk, and act like chickens! I think they were a healthier bunch, and also fed a lower protein feed to help their bodies and bones keep pace. They also did a lot of the "leg stretching" action, and I think it is simply growing, becoming heavy, and the tendency to just sit there instead of walking around.
They just seemed better overall, and they grew quite large by 7 and 8 weeks when we processed. One monster dressed at almost 8#, so it was about 11# to start.
Very happy with that bunch, so I am at it again this spring- got mine from FamFarm&Home (TSC was OUT!) and they are happy & healthy so far. April 1st or so on the hatch date. I start them on a medicated feed, then switch after we go through that bag.
Good luck with the little eaters!
