Raising Chickens For Eggs
One of the most common reason people are into poultry raising is to have laying chicken producing eggs. It is always rewarding to have fresh eggs from your own poultry.
There are many chickens than can produce eggs but few are considered to be the best egg-laying breeds on poultry raising. All hens are capable to producing eggs with the same nutrition however; there are some that have the ability to produce more superior eggs.
Leghorn is the most common laying chicken breed that is used for egg production. A Leghorn hen can produce as much as 300 eggs in a year. Other breeds are: Rhode Island Reds, Black Star, Red Star, Light Sussex, Plymouth Rock, Cuckoo Mara and Barred Rock.
When you start poultry raising in spring, you can find chicks in your local feed and poultry supply shops. There are also chicks sold online. But if you are just starting out, it is recommended to get your chicks locally where you can ask advice regarding poultry raising. Also, ask your supplier which among the breeds are easier to mange for beginners.
It is not necessary to have a rooster when you are raising chicken for egg production.
Prepare your coop for the chicken. As well as nesting boxes inside your chicken house. There should also be space where they be allowed to be free for few hours every day. Once they are accustomed to their place, they will return to their roost every evening.
When chicks are about 3 months old then you can start feeding them with grains and left over scratch. They would like to eat fruits and vegetables but avoid feeding them with meat or greasy foods.
Hens will start laying eggs when they are 6 months old. Your poultry can produce about 200-250 eggs per chicken in a year. However egg production is influenced by season and daylight. During winter months you can install light to extend the daylight which is usually done in the morning hours. Also, keep track of those chickens that are not producing eggs – which might be better for dinner. Take a look at “Incredible Chickens”, click here.
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The Complete Guide to Raising Chickens at Home in your Back Yard.