Raising Meat Chickens, Week 4

This week the meat chickens are 4 weeks old.  We estimate that they weigh over a pound already.  They're huge, compared to my pullet peeps who are only 3 days younger.  I'll have to take a picture of them next to each other, that would be interesting.

They are doing well out in their tractor.  It's holding up well, such a simple design but sturdy.  I'll have to come up with a new idea for a roof, the plywood we're using is already warping a little bit.  I would love to find a sheet of metal roofing to fit.

They are eating 12 hours on, 12 off now.  24% protein food.  Drinking 3 gallons of water a day.  I still add the chicken vitamins to their water.

They love sunning themselves after they stuff themselves.  The roos are beginning to develop their combs and wattles.  There isn't a huge size difference between them and the girls, yet.

In case you can't tell, they're poopy chickens.  They poop, a lot.  They should probably be moved more than once a day to fresh grass.  But, they thenselves stay surprisingly clean.

In other news, I have a ringleader for my escapees.  This Barred Rock has taught at least 4 of her sisters to jump the fence and free range.  I love to let them free range, but while we're dealing with naughty Brady, I'm trying to keep them confined.

It's so nice to have friendly chickens wandering around...

This post linked to:  Homestead Barn Hop