The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: Kimbo on June 17, 2015, 04:57:08 pm

Title: Ixworth X RIR??
Post by: Kimbo on June 17, 2015, 04:57:08 pm

I went to visit my friend a few days ago. She's a retired sheep farmer and now has a cockerel and 4 hens, just for eggs for the house.  Mr Fox got 3 of her hens so she's having a couple of my Wyandottes when they are old enough. When I went to see her hen house I found a rather magnificent Ixworth cockerel and a lovely RIR hen.

Is that a decent cross for the table? If so I will get her to collect some eggs and I will hatch them for her. If not we wont bother!

Title: Re: Ixworth X RIR??
Post by: hughesy on June 17, 2015, 09:32:05 pm

In my experience despite the Ixworth's rep as a dual purpose bird it's not very good for eating or laying. The RIR can be quite good for eggs but doesn't make a very good dinner either so I would suggest crossing the two might be a waste of time.

Title: Re: Ixworth X RIR??
Post by: Kimbo on June 18, 2015, 03:24:45 pm

 :roflanim: Oh Dear!!
One day I will have a good idea!  :thinking:

Title: Re: Ixworth X RIR??
Post by: Marches Farmer on June 20, 2015, 01:35:54 pm

The Ixworth is a very rare breed.  Could you find a home for him with a breeder needing new blood, or get some hens and breed them? 

Title: Re: Ixworth X RIR??
Post by: Kimbo on June 20, 2015, 01:51:51 pm

 :idea: Theres a thought! That never occurred to me.
I will ask my friend if she would be willing to part with him.
Thanks