Broiler Chicken Care

Broilers are the most common meat bird raised in the United States because of their feed efficiency and ability to grow at a faster rate. It is because of this that there are special steps to follow when raising broilers. To avoid bad legs and Ascites problems, we recommend the following steps…

1. Restrict access to feed 10 hours per day after 14 days old. Be sure the chicks have adequate feeder space so most of the chicks can eat at the same time.
2. Limit protein in the ration to 20-22%.
3. Limit light to natural day-length or 12 hours (whichever is longer).
4. Keep chicks warm with good ventilation, but avoid drafts.
5. Keep air quality high by keeping ammonia low by keeping the area well ventilated.
6. Do not use straw for litter, use wood shavings or ground corn cobs.

If you want the birds to mature all at one time, purchase either all pullets (hens) or all cox (roosters). If you want them to mature at different sizes, purchase the straight run. The pullets also make excellent Cornish Game Hens if butchered at 2 to 2 ½ lbs. live weight.