So I'm almost new

[Omani]

I've just spent the last two days going through all the posts in this section of the forums. My DH and I have decided to get peafowl. I've been to the UPA site; I wasn't impressed. Not a lot of info for beginners. We would like to know as much as we can before jumping in with both feet. So my questions to you guys are:
Are there any books,magazines or other media that you couldn't live without?
What are the best sources for supplies?
Would you recommend younger or older birds for someone who is just starting out? What colours?
Who should we get them from? Are hatcheries better than breeders?
(If you want to suggest a specific breeder, you could PM or e-mail me)
Are there any species related problems we should know about? (like don't put them with chickens)
This is just for starters. I'm sure there are going to be more "dumb" questions along the way. But that's why I came here. I knew you guys could help me out.
Thanks a bunch.

 

[deerman]

Dont get them from hatchery, they get them from breeders and mark the price up.

Peachicks need little more care than chicken, more like turkeys.

Money wise or if you want to free range, start with 3 month old or older peachicks.

If you want to breed them this spring get 2 or 3 year or older birds.

2 yr old will breed, but males will not get a full train untill 3 yr.

In your area stay away from the greens, unless you want to keep them in heated barns.

India blue are ok without heat, the india come in all the colors not just blue.

If you dont mindpaying the shipping cost, you can get breeders shipped in.

here are a few links. with more help.

http://upaforum.com/index.php?sid=068fc64cefdb02ba02777019d577ab88

http://www.peafowl.org/

and check info on these breeders sites. http://www.leggspeafowl.com/ http://www.hopkinslivestock.com/

PM me anytime can tell you a few good breeders to get birds from at a fair price.

 

[featherhead]

Here's a book that covers most everything - well worth the $20.
http://peafowl.org/publications/books.htm

Also, with the UPA, there is a Knowledge Base section on their forum which is for UPA members. More info in this section than you could imagine. The topics don't show unless you're a logged-in member.


http://upaforum.com/

Have fun and keep us posted on your adventures.

 

[Omani]

I knew somebody would have some answers. I checked out all the web sites. I didn't realize that you had to be a member of the UPA to get to the knowledge base. I'll have to sign up. The book looks interesting, I'm going to order it ASAP.
Breeding is not an issue at this point. Since we've never had turkeys (except for dinner) 3 to 4 month olds seem to be the way to go. We would like them old enough to be some what independent but young enough where they'll bond to us. They will eventually free range because we intend to keep the chickens penned. I don't want any cross contamination. Besides, a peacock strutting across your front lawn looks waaay cooler than a rooster crowing on the fence post. India blues are beautiful. I love all the colour variations.
Follow up questions:
Are Spaldings considered "greens"?
At what age can you tell gender?
Do the hens only lay during breeding season?
Do they need an enclosed shelter ? Our winters can be nasty.
Can they get frost bite like chickens or turkeys? Do you put vaseline on them?
Thanks again.

 

[Boggy Bottom Bantams]

Deermans' advise is dead one
As for your other questions, spauldings arent as sysnsitive as the greens. Higher percentage birds 7/8 or so do bare watching though in extreme cold.
As for a shelter, it's good to have one, though many will never go into one. The blues mutations will all do well in your area, they are pretty cold hardy. A 2x4 laid flat for a rooste helps prevent frost bite.

for most, sexing can easily be done by 3 months. Whites and greens would be the exception here.
And yes, the only lay during the spring. 2 years of age for most, some of the true greens are 3-4 years.
Get ready for an addiction, you're gonna love them.
Aubrey

 

[deerman]

Quote:
Agree with all the above, reason for 2x4 roost is so they can set on their toes, to keep them warm....

Spaldings are a cross of the indiablues and greens.