The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Community => Introduce yourself => Topic started by: jockdock on April 05, 2009, 08:17:54 pm

Title: Healthy birds
Post by: jockdock on April 05, 2009, 08:17:54 pm

Hi all, I am due to collect my very first 4 birds (Black Rocks) next weekend. Can any experienced keepers give me some hints as to what I should be looking out for to ensure I get healthy birds. Thanks.

Title: Re: Healthy birds
Post by: Rosemary on April 05, 2009, 08:46:19 pm

Buy from a registered Black Rock agent; erect red comb, wattles; bright eyes; shiny plumage; bright and alert; no fluid from any orifice; ( that's the hens not the agent). If you have other birds, keep them apart for a few days just in case.

Happy hen keeping!

Title: Re: Healthy birds
Post by: sandy on April 05, 2009, 09:14:34 pm

I have had my three black rocks for nearly a year now and I woundered if I was sold duds but no, they are great, took ages to lay but they are very tame, hardy and lay an egg each day, Inow want more but must make a better hutch, they are fun to have and I have been planting stuff in the garden tody, they were almost on my spade looking for worms, nice, happy birds like me!!!! good luck and enjoy!!!

Title: Re: Healthy birds
Post by: doganjo on April 05, 2009, 11:41:09 pm

Have you been selling the eggs?

Title: Re: Healthy birds
Post by: sandy on April 06, 2009, 08:28:07 am

No, I made some cake and bartered with a dozen, I have been doing some breakfast lately as well.