By Andi Anderson
Starting a poultry enterprise can be exciting, especially when farm supply stores and hatcheries offer a wide variety of chicks, ducklings, and poults.
However, before purchasing any type of poultry, it is important to have a clear plan for how the birds will be used. Most poultry owners begin with meat production or egg production, while others may choose to raise exhibition‑quality birds.
Understanding the purpose of the flock makes it easier to choose breeds that will match your goals and give you the best results.
For meat production, certain breeds are known for their ability to grow quickly and reach market weight in a short period of time. Cornish and Cornish Cross chickens are the most common choices for meat because they typically reach their maximum weight in five to eight weeks.
They have been developed specifically for fast growth and high‑quality meat. Some farmers may choose dual‑purpose breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Black Australorps, or Barred Plymouth Rocks.
These breeds can be used for both meat and eggs, but they take longer to reach full size. Others prefer heritage breeds such as American Bresse, Bielefelder, or Niederrheiner. These traditional breeds grow slowly and naturally, which may be important for farmers focused on long‑term sustainability.
For egg production, the choice of breed may depend on egg color, egg size, and the preferences of customers. White Leghorns are one of the most popular commercial egg‑laying breeds because they consistently produce large numbers of white eggs.
Maran chickens lay extra‑large dark brown eggs, which are attractive to many customers. Ameraucana chickens are valued for their colorful feather patterns and their large blue‑green eggs.
Brahmas are also excellent layers, producing large brown eggs and maintaining a calm temperament. They are known to be good mothers and can raise chicks naturally.
Exhibition poultry requires a different approach. Raising birds for shows can be challenging because they must meet breed standards for appearance, size, and temperament.
Those interested in exhibitions should refer to the American Poultry Association’s Standards of Perfection, which explains the specific characteristics required for each recognized breed.
Success in exhibition poultry also depends on selecting quality birds, breeding them at the right time, and carefully managing the flock.
Regardless of the type of poultry you want to raise, it is essential to research breeds before buying. Resources such as The Ohio State University’s chicken breed selection factsheet and hatchery catalogs offer helpful information.
By understanding breed characteristics and matching them with your goals, you can build a successful poultry enterprise that meets your needs.
For additional guidance, Sabrina Schirtzinger, ANR Educator in Knox County, can be reached at 740‑397‑0401 or Schirtzinger.55@osu.edu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: Ohio, Livestock, Poultry