Reducing Flock Size

[centrarchid]

I am running the numbers on cost of keeping chickens and everything else with new reality we are all about to enjoy (sarcasm). To control feed cost we will shortly be getting rid of about half our hens that are in lay. Those I think can be sold locally to others wanting backyard egg production. Roosters (game mostly) are going to be butchered after a couple weeks of heavy feeding. Breeding will continue all though most will be consumed by the time they are 8 weeks old. They are not Cornish X so will be small but tasty.

The harder part will be trying to optimize use of feed that will still be purchased. I am likely one of the few that has significant forage for free-range birds and the ability to protect those birds. I do not know what level of egg production will be ideal. We will be eating some our selves, but already seeing increased interest by other wanting eggs from known sources with known handling history.

 

[sourland]

We are facing the new reality. It's a harsh way to get there, but going back to a reality that has long be left is not all bad.

 

[Folly's place]

On a positive note, it's NOT January! We are starting this in spring, so time to garden, get outside more, and enjoy the flowers, and chicks.
I might actually get my overgrown planting beds more managed, and a veggie garden planted.
Mary

 

[Mrs. K]

Dang do I wish I was closer, I'd take a few of those girls! I have chicks ordered, hoping I get them, this is crazy.

 

[Folly's place]

I have chicks coming in April, and I hope maybe a broody hen at home sometime soon. Usually I move some birds to the local auction, but maybe not this year. More for the freezer, I guess.
Everyone stay healthy!
Mary

 

[sourland]

I foresee a lot of backyard gardens this spring, and that's a good thing.

 

[centrarchid]

We are doing the garden thing doing it where we intended to plant an additional 6 apple trees. Chicken manure will be used as fertilizer. Rabbits are going to be a major problem. Greens, raddishes, green beans, tomatoes, zucchini and pumpkin will be done. Latter to will be put out in pasture. Pumpkin meat is good carbohydrate source and seeds the birds go to extremes to extract. I would love to get a few hundred of pumpkin ready by fall.

 

[centrarchid]

Just advertised laying hens and hens on Craigs List. I have never actually sold a chicken on Craigslist, although have been contacted by scammers. Bless their dear hearts. Asking $12 each. Will be interesting to see if current situation spawns interest.

 

[centrarchid]

All birds listed sold within 4 hours for listed price of $12 each.. Had three people calling. Never experienced that before. Will keep us in feed for better than a month.

 

[centrarchid]

Should have entitled thread "Reducing Resources Needed to Survive COVID-19". This getting very interesting indeed. I am working from home during day and sneak into work early in morning so do not interact directly with co-workers. Work at work mostly fish but actually involves chickens now. Chickens think I am a cool dude.