Meyer Moment: March Birds of the Month - High Production Layers

Hey everyone, welcome back to The Coop with Meyer Hatchery, where we talk about all things poultry in hopes of educating chicken keepers and inspiring future flock owners.

I'm Linda and today we will be talking about our March Birds of the Month from our Production category.  We will be discussing the Barred Plymouth Rocks, White Plymouth Rocks and Rhode Island Reds.  

The hens of each of these breeds from Meyer Hatchery should lay between 4 to 6 large or extra large, brown eggs weekly once mature. 
These breeds are considered dual purpose, but the Barred and White Rock hens are slightly heavier than Rhode Island hens.  The Barred and White Rock hens will weigh about 7.5 pounds while the Rhode Island hens will only weigh about 6.5 pounds.  

The same applies to the roosters with the Barred and White Plymouth Rock roosters each weighing about 9.5 pounds while the Rhode Island rooster’s expected weight is only about 8.5 pounds at maturity. 

The hens of each of these breeds are generally calm and friendly with the Barred Rock being a Mrs. Meyer favorite.  I’ve had Barred Rocks that were always first to come visit me for treats and explore anything new or different in the coop making them fun to have.  

Some customers have reported their Rhode Island Red roosters being on the aggressive side.  Remember, this could also apply to any rooster of any breed.  They are unique individuals with each possessing different personalities even among the same breed.    

The Rhode Island Red, Barred Plymouth Rock and White Rock are all good production breeds.  They are perfect for those who are planning to market eggs and want a range of lovely, creamy, brown eggs.  

Because they are good foragers and are hardy in any climate they should be easy on feed consumption, especially when able to get to fresh greens helping to keep your feed costs down.

Do you have any experience with these breeds?  How did you like them?  Was your favorite part of them their inquisitive nature, desire to come to take treats from your hand, or the foraging skills that help make them a little more self-sufficient feed wise. 

We’d love to hear from you.  Do you have any ideas you’d like us to talk about on The Coop?  Are there any questions we can answer?  Please email ideas and questions to us at podcast@meyerhatchery.com. 

Be sure to subscribe, and if you would be so kind, drop us a review. Did you know that you can save $5 off your next Meyer Hatchery purchase over $50.00?  Enter the coupon code 'thecoop' at checkout! 

And with that, we thank you for listening to The Coop.  …and remember, life is better because we have chickens.