When to butcher

[DDDflock937]

i have 8 laying buff Orpingtons. Approx 1 1/2 years old. I also have 8 2 mos old and 15 2weeks-newbie.
I am planning on butchering some. Are the eldest still good for meat? Or when is a good time to butcher the newer ones?

 

[Chaos18]

Yes the older ones can still be used for meat. Usually older hens are used for stewing. Younger birds I usually try to butcher right around 20 weeks of age.

 

[DDDflock937]

Yes the older ones can still be used for meat. Usually older hens are used for stewing. Younger birds I usually try to butcher right around 20 weeks of age.

Thank you!!!

 

[Hummingbird Hollow]

"Spent Hens" or hens who are reaching the end of their productive laying make great eating, but think more like pot roast, they need to be cooked low and slow with lots of moisture. I use a variety of sauses and a crock pot.