rotating rooster- flock genetics

[nellynelly]

i have 2 flocks, lets call them A and B. i would like to start breeding. but i want to ensure genetic diversity.

if the flocks have chicks, A-1 and B-1, and replace the rooster in flock A with a B-1 rooster, and replace B with A-1. If i then have chicks A-2 and B-2, and again replace and swap rooster. i have roosters breeding with their grandmothers. i guess i could cull the first generation.

should i get a third flock? how do people rotate roosters?

 

[Percheron chick]

Cull both roosters. Replace them with fresh breeding stock and start the process over. No need to cull the hens if they fit your criteria.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

I have read that it is OK for a roo to mate with his daughter but it is best to avoid sibling matings. Having done none of this myself, I am only giving this to you so you can search for it if needed (query terms).

You can look up "line breeding."

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

You don't need to cull either rooster as long as he's giving you the characteristics you want.

Here's a good primer on breeding techniques. http://www.the-coop.org/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=28027

 

[sfh11]

Keep each pen a seperate strain. Keep pullets that are better than mother and mate to father. Keep cockeral that is better than father and mate to mother. After few years of this bring a cock over from the other strain to add diversity and start over.

 

[nellynelly]

thank you all. line breeding just seems wrong, but will give it a go.

thanks again.