Xcross issues

[Cornish raiser]

I have an 8 week old cornish cross that will not stand up. Just sits on hocks and scoots backwards until it gets stuck in a corner. Seemed fine yesterday. I separated it from the rest of the birds and it does not seem to want to drink or eat. Was wonderring if this bird would be fine to harvest ?

 

[LaFleche]

I have an 8 week old cornish cross that will not stand up. Just sits on hocks and scoots backwards until it gets stuck in a corner. Seemed fine yesterday. I separated it from the rest of the birds and it does not seem to want to drink or eat. Was wonderring if this bird would be fine to harvest ?

Cornish X are bred to grow rapidly and be harvested at about 6-8 weeks old.
The enormous weight gain brings too much pressure on their bones and the tendons are not able to grow at similar speed.

It is time to butcher your bird.

And welcome to the BYC community

 

[Morrigan]

Yes, its as LaFleche says, CX often outgrow their ability to support themselves. When they have trouble walking, it's definitely time to harvest. Provided you feel confident that the chicken isn't sick (seems unlikely) there shouldn't be any problems with eating them.