Raising Rhode
Island Red chickens is a great choice for beginners and experienced
poultry keepers alike. They're hardy, friendly, and prolific egg layers. Here’s
a comprehensive guide to help you raise them successfully:
1. Start With Healthy Chicks or Pullets
· Where to buy: Reputable hatcheries, local breeders, or farm supply stores.
· Chick care (first 6 weeks):
o Brooder temp: 95°F (35°C) the first week; reduce by 5°F each week.
o Bedding: Pine shavings (avoid cedar).
o Feed: Chick starter
with 18–20% protein.
o Water: Always clean and
fresh; use shallow dishes to prevent drowning.
2. Set Up the Coop and Run
· Space:
o Coop: 3–4 sq ft per bird.
o Run: 8–10 sq ft per bird.
· Ventilation: Ensure good airflow without drafts.
· Security: Protect from predators (raccoons, hawks, etc.).
· Nesting boxes: One box for every 3–4 hens.
· Roosts: Provide perches
at least 2 feet off the ground.
3. Feeding and Nutrition
· 0–6 weeks: Chick starter (20% protein).
· 6–18 weeks: Grower feed (16–18% protein).
· 18+ weeks (layers): Layer feed with 16% protein + calcium.
· Treats/Scraps: Occasional, no more than 10% of diet.
· Grit and Oyster Shells:
o Grit: For digestion if they roam or get treats.
o Oyster shell: For strong eggshells once laying.
4. Lighting and Egg Production
· Laying starts: Around 18–20 weeks.
· Eggs per year: ~250–300 brown eggs per hen.
· Winter production: Add supplemental lighting (14 hours/day).
5. Behavior and Temperament
· Temperament: Calm, curious, social; roosters can be territorial.
· Good with kids: Yes.
· Noise level: Moderate — quieter than some other breeds.
6. Health and Maintenance
· Vaccinations: Ask your hatchery about Marek’s and others.
· Parasites: Check regularly for mites, lice, and worms.
· Dust bath: Provide a mix of sand, dirt, and diatomaceous earth.
· Clean coop: Weekly spot clean, deep clean every 1–2 months.
7. Free-Range vs. Confined
· Rhode Island Reds do well in either setting.
· Free-range = Lower feed costs and happier hens.
· Confined = Easier predator control.
8. Breeding (Optional)
· One rooster for every 8–10 hens.
· They are good breeders and brooders.
· Rhode Island Reds can be crossed with other breeds for
hybrid vigor.
CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE BOOK ON AMAZON
You Will Be An Expert On Rhode Island Reds After Reading This Book
Whether you already own Rhode Island Red chickens, or you are considering owning them, this is the book for you. This is not a book on general chicken care, which is well covered by other sources. After reading this book you will be an expert on Rhode Island Red chickens. You will be able to:
•Describe the history of the Rhode Island Red breed in stunning detail
•Know what characteristics and traits to expect from your Rhode Island Reds
•Understand the difference between Heritage Rhode Island Reds and Industrial or Production Rhode Island Reds
•Optimize housing and feeding for your Rhode Island Reds
•Keep more docile breeds safe from Rhode Island Reds within a mixed breed flock
•Safely keep Rhode Island Red chickens as pets
•Use your Rhode Island Red chickens for fresh eggs and meat
•Determine whether your local climate is suitable for Rhode Island Red chickens
•Selectively breed Rhode Island Red chickens to produce your own prize-winning show birds
•Hatch Rhode Island Red eggs
•Weigh the pros and cons of the breed
•Make an educated decision on whether Rhode Island Reds are the breed for you
•Provide customized, expert care for your Rhode Island Red chickens
You will learn all of this and more!
Post a Comment