Back in 2004 we started with 24 R.I. Red/Brown layers. They were laying consistantly from
the time they were 19-20 weeks old. They didn't even take a break (molting period), when it got down in the teen's in
December and January of '04 - '05.
As long as they have a dry/draft-free chicken house and a good steady supply of "clean" water, they are
happy to keep a constant supply of eggs for our customers.
We've had the normal problems with our hen's and roosters, such as pecking at each other, 1 or 2 "lazy layers"
(not consistant), etc.
We have learned alot in the short period of time we've had our hen's and would be happy to help you with
getting your own flock established. Wether it be designing a coop/hen house, type of fence for free-ranging, feed's
and suppliments, pasture mixes or general health.
Remember the only dumb question is the one not asked!
We keep a constant supply of "JUDSON'S" 16% Layers mash available for our hen's as well as plenty of cool
water in the summer and warm water in the winter.
Our layers mash consists of:
ground shell corn, soybean meal, molasses, limestone, salt, vitamin A/E/K&B12. There are NO
ANIMAL by-PRODUCTS used in their feed.
When the weather is nice, they love to be outside on "DOEBLER'S" pasture grasses. (Clover, Alfalfa,
Fescue & Rye Grass).
For a treat, they get fresh broccoli that has flowered or lettuce leaves. They go nut's
over cracked corn too! The corn isn't the best thing for them so it's moderated and given only 2-3 times a week
in an amount that can be eaten in about 30 minutes.
In the Spring of 2008 we changed our brown layers from R.I. Red to:
Barred Plymouth Rock
Hen's
A more traditional breed
In the UK, USA, and Australia, Barred Plymouth Rocks are often
among the top show award winners and utility Barred Plymouth Rocks are used in the make-up of many commercial laying
hybrids.
The Barred Rock Hen is one of the all time popular favorites in this country.
Developed in New England in the early 1800's by crossing "Dominiques"
and "Black Javas", it has spread to every part of the U.S. and is an ideal Brown egg/layer that are not discouraged by
cold weather, which is perfect for where our farm in located in North/Central PA.
Their solid plumpness and yellow skin will make a beautiful heavy roasting
fowl.
Our hen's have a narrow, clean barring so desirable in apperance.
Their bodies are long, broad, and deep with bred-in strength
and vitality.
The chic's are dark grey to black with some white patches on
their head and body, but by the time their 12 weeks old, they resemble the identifiable looks of the adult hen's, as
seen below.
