Fertrell Breeders Supplement

 I wanted to tell you all about this supplement that was created by Jeff Mattocks, company is Fertrell. 

I've been using it for a while and hope it will increase hatchability in my Cochins, and general vigor in all chicks, as well as having the adults in top shape. The hens have stopped laying due to broodiness and the high temps, so I will have to let you know later if I see a difference there. I have a few due to hatch this week.  I can tell you though that I've seen a difference in the chicks that have hatched. They are healthy and active, and what really showed me the difference was in some lavender orpington chicks. I had one batch here, and my mom and sister were raising another group for a couple of weeks. My group had different feed, with the supplement added. Moms group didn't have it. I'll share a picture in the comments to show you the difference. There's only a weeks difference in age of both groups. The chicks getting the supplement are twice as big as the others! They're naturally large birds anyway and get big fast, but this really got my attention.

Here's a short video about mixing the supplement: Here

Kenny Trioano - Breeding Methods

Excellent and interesting information about different breeding Methods and the pros and cons of each one.

Looks VS Sustainability

Only one of my Jubilee girls has went broody and stayed committed. Another was "clucky" for a few days then quit. The new momma is my smallest hen. We call her Itty Bitty. Most would kick her out of their breeding program since she's a little smaller than the others, but I'm interested in keeping good traits in my birds just as much as I am in correct type. Temperament, being good mother's/Father's, protectors, layers..all as important as having the right "looks."

No Boys Allowed - Roosters

People, in general, do not want roosters. Sometimes it's because they live in an area where roosters aren't allowed. Sometimes it's because they already have a rooster and two means fighting and lots of it.
Most of the time, they only want hens who will supply them with eggs.

That's really influenced my decision to raise few silkies. Most Americans don't eat them, though in some countries they are used medicinally or even as a delicacy.
That means disposing of 90% of all the boys you hatch and there usually seems to be more males than females. Often, you can't even give roosters away free and find homes for them all. Some breeders refuse to sell hens only, they require people to take a rooster also, or no sale.

I'm focusing more on my other breeds which although rare, can easily be utilized as a dual purpose breed..able to be used for meat and eggs.
They take longer to mature than other breeds but nevertheless can eventually feed your family.

The truth being what it is regarding roosters, pullets and hens come at a higher price, especially if you want them laying or close to point of lay(POL.)

All of my unsold males will be sent off to freezer camp come Fall. Orpingtons make nice table birds as well as being good layers. I won't force anyone to take an unwanted rooster, but again, that's part of the reason why hens cost more.

How To Make Money With Your Chickens

Another of my very favorite youtube channels sharing how they make a little extra income with their Buff Orpingtons..