The Blue Plymouth Rock Chicken is a popular choice for backyard flocks due to its beautiful plumage and dual-purpose nature. This guide provides comprehensive information on raising Blue Plymouth Rocks, from preparing the brooder to caring for adult birds.
Preparing for Your Blue Plymouth Rock Chicks
Before your chicks arrive, ensure you have a clean, disinfected brooder space free from drafts and predators. A brooder ring made of cardboard, approximately 18 inches high, with a heat lamp suspended above, effectively contains chicks and prevents them from straying too far from heat and food. Initially, position the heat lamp around 18 inches above the floor, maintaining a temperature of 95°F directly beneath. Gradually raise the lamp every 3-4 days to reduce the temperature to 85-90°F.
Bedding: Use 2-4 inches of dry, absorbent materials like pine shavings or chopped straw. Avoid slick surfaces like newspaper, which can cause leg problems, and materials like cedar chips, treated shavings, or dusty sawdust.
Water: Provide ample clean water sources, using approximately one gallon-sized chick waterer per 25 chicks. Add a poultry-safe electrolyte supplement to the water, especially after shipping, to help with stress and hydration.
Feed: Start with a chick starter feed containing 18-24% protein for the first six weeks. Transition to a grower feed with 16-18% protein after six weeks. Consult your local feed store for brand recommendations.
First Day and Ongoing Care for Blue Plymouth Rock Chicks
Arrival: Upon arrival, introduce room temperature water immediately. This is crucial after their journey. Observe your chicks closely for signs of stress or illness.
Monitoring Behavior: Observe your chicks’ behavior to gauge their comfort. Cold chicks huddle together loudly, while comfortable chicks are relatively quiet and dispersed. Adjust the heat lamp and ventilation as needed to maintain optimal conditions.
Temperature Adjustments: As your Blue Plymouth Rocks grow, gradually decrease the brooder temperature by about 5°F per week. You can turn off the heat lamp during the day around four weeks of age, weather permitting. By 6-9 weeks, fully feathered birds can typically tolerate outdoor temperatures above 65°F.
Raising Blue Plymouth Rock Chickens to Adulthood
Space Requirements: As your Blue Plymouth Rocks grow, expand their living space accordingly. Ensure they have adequate room to roam and forage.
Feeding and Watering: After one week, elevate food and water containers to the height of the birds’ backs to minimize waste and prevent breast blisters.
Waterer Platform: To maintain a dry environment, consider using a wire platform for waterers. This allows spilled water to drain away, preventing muddy bedding and keeping the water cleaner.
Health and Hygiene: Practice good sanitation to prevent disease. Regularly clean the coop and provide fresh bedding. Monitor your flock for signs of illness and consult a veterinarian if necessary. Remember, baby poultry can carry salmonella. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
Conclusion
Raising Blue Plymouth Rock chickens can be a rewarding experience. By following these guidelines and providing proper care, you can ensure your flock thrives and provides you with fresh eggs and meat for years to come. Remember to observe your birds closely and adapt your care as they grow and the seasons change.
