What age to kill Barred Rocks?

[GimmeCake]

I got this evil Barred Rock Pullet that's about 8 weeks old now and I decided she's going to be of more use just by eating her. Anyway, at what age should I cook her? Also, how much meat do you think I can get out of a barred rock? Thanks!

 

[Fred's Hens]

First, as a pullet, she'll have less meat than a male and since you don't say if she is hatchery stock, we'll assume she is. Meat? Not so much. Dressed and laying on a plate, you'd probably be really disappointed to see it'd look nothing like what you'd see under plastic at a store.

That said, it is going to take many more weeks to bring her up to a respectable "fryer" size. If you are determined to cull her for food, I'd take her while she's still tender. Shoot for 18-20 weeks or just a bit less. May 2 lbs. dressed meat.

 

[lizanne]

At 8 weeks she'll be tiny!! I just had my dad process 6 - 8 week old roo's for me (they all started crowing and I can't have roosters). They were real little, but they still have enough meat to make it worth eating. What does she do that's "evil"?

 

[mstricer]

Start holding her, my BR are not friendly, but lay big eggs.

 

[cestial225]

My barred rocks became a lot more friendly once they reached laying age. I was really surprised at how much they calmed down.

 

[GimmeCake]

I know they calm down but this pullet is very annoying. She ran out when I was fixing the coop door, which took a bit to catch her. She also makes lots of noises when I'm around. And she also likes to put her face in front of me. I just don't like her. Anyway, thanks for the suggestions. I'd say maybe at laying age is when she's ready. Maybe a small chicken but I've had small ones from the store, it's enough to make a few meals.

 

[mstricer]

Mine are the flightiest birds I have, only one is friendly