Raising layers and meat birds together?

[MissLaura]

Hello! Is it ok to raise meat birds and layers together? We have a large coop and they will be able to free range. We will have 10 acres. Waiting on the closing date for our new home.

 

[3KillerBs]

What kind of meat birds?

Cornish X usually take a special feeding regimen to keep them healthy but the "ranger" type meat birds are less likely to gorge themselves to death.

 

[Pollito Pelon]

Mixed flock cornish cross meat with layer hens not sure breed.

I was surprised how healthy all the birds were

 

[MissLaura]

What kind of meat birds?

Cornish X usually take a special feeding regimen to keep them healthy but the "ranger" type meat birds are less likely to gorge themselves to death.

We haven't decided yet. Doing the research first. I was under the impression it shouldn't be done because of the different nutritional needs.

 

[MissLaura]

Mixed flock cornish cross meat with layer hens not sure breed.View attachment 2883603
I was surprised how healthy all the birds were

They look beautiful!

 

[bruceha2000]

I think that if Cornish Cross are treated like regular birds they will just grow a bit more slowly. Probably be healthier as well.

They don't HAVE to eat themselves to death in 8 weeks. Unless you are planning to raise them fast to process and sell I see no reason not to keep them all together. But I think you need to feed not in a feeder but broadcast the feed so there isn't a crush of birds fighting for the food.

 

[gimmie birdies]

If you raise them both as chicks, meat birds will get beat up by layers if you introduce them later.

 

[MissLaura]

Mixed flock cornish cross meat with layer hens not sure breed.View attachment 2883603
I was surprised how healthy all the birds were

Do they all eat the same feed?

 

[MissLaura]

I think that if Cornish Cross are treated like regular birds they will just grow a bit more slowly. Probably be healthier as well.

They don't HAVE to eat themselves to death in 8 weeks. Unless you are planning to raise them fast to process and sell I see no reason not to keep them all together. But I think you need to feed not in a feeder but broadcast the feed so there isn't a crush of birds fighting for the food.

We aren't in a hurry. Raising them for our family.

 

[MissLaura]

If you raise them both as chicks, meat birds will get beat up by layers if you introduce them later.

Thank you!