Hi, I did not use small, weak, or "runt" chicks to begin this project. The details are a secret, that I have shared with only one trusted friend. (You're the Best SS) But, I will tell you that I did not use that type of breeding tactic. I breed for strength, type, color, and temperament. I cull any birds that are not "sweet natured" in all of my breeding programs. There is nothing worse than an evil temperament in a chicken. I don't try to "save" the weak chicks in my birds. So far I have hatched about 20 of them, and I have lost 3 total. I think that is pretty good. I cull for type, and I have great color. I still have a few minor color pattern issues, but they are very minor and I am thinking I can work it out in about a year. It certainly doesn't hurt the looks of the birds. They are pretty! The birds are very weather resistant in temperatures down to 25-30 degrees F. (Probably not to great for any small birds for a prolonged period of time) They need a draft free, dry coop, and I keep them exactly the same way I keep my other cochins. They are very active little birds. I would probably add a heat lamp for them if the weather was extreme for any length of time in the winter. I would just feel better about it because of their size. They mature in about 8 months and are very good layers and broody hens. In fact, all three of my hens went broody about 2 weeks ago. You should see them in the nest box!
