Breeding age for hens and cocks.

[Pearce]

Hi.

Im curious to know what age you all breed your hens and cocks.
Over here I've usually started at 12 months but I know a few seasoned breeders who start at 10 months.

What age do you start the hens breeding at? And cocks?
Thanks.

[Mark Ramshaw]

6-9 months if the cocks showing the right signs. Maybe 9 months for hens.

[Pearce]

Thanks mate its interesting to hear.

[Pericat]

In my opinion minium 8 month for the cock and 10 for the hen, but if you can, i wait 12 month for the hen.

I have a friend that he breed all the birds with 6 months and doesn't have problems.

[Barrie Shutt]

some breeders use them at 6 months old but 8 months is my rule of thumb.

[Pete.G.Smith]

Hi.

Im curious to know what age you all breed your hens and cocks.
Over here I've usually started at 12 months but I know a few seasoned breeders who start at 10 months.

What age do you start the hens breeding at? And cocks?
Thanks.

The answer to this question varies greatly.
Frank Silva used to say 9 months and Harry Bryan, in his book says 6 months for a hen and 10 months for a cock.
I guess you should use a cock when he is fertile and a hen when she is mature enough to lay, without comprimising her health. I have found that it is not a good idea to wait too long to breed with those really big buff hens, but there are always exceptions