To enhance cash flow, you can venture into free-range chicken rearing by establishing pastures around your property. However, for this endeavor to succeed, it is crucial to ensure that the pastures provide the appropriate protein and dietary content for the chickens’ proper growth.
The first step is to select the most suitable breed of chicken for our specific requirements.
Considering your goal of rearing chickens, it would be best to combine hens and a cock. This will enable you to manage the breeding process and maintain a self-sustaining flock.
Before proceeding further, assessing the market potential for free-range chickens in your area is essential. It would be best to determine whether there is a demand for free-range eggs or broilers. While there is a market for free-range broilers, it is typically a niche market that you would need to develop.
Also Read: How to start egg supply business
Free-range chicken breeds
We have several viable breeds for free-range broilers, including Ross, Arbor Acres, and Cobb. All three breeds can be successfully raised as free-range broilers.
Also Read: How long does it take Cobb 500 broilers to grow
However, if you decide to focus on free-range eggs, you must select a breed known for its prolific egg-laying capabilities to ensure a sufficient supply for sale. Purchasing point-of-lay pullets from a reputable supplier is advisable. These pullets should be at the required weight by 18 weeks and vaccinated against common poultry diseases.
Broiler chickens have specific housing requirements, especially during the initial stages. Day-old chicks need to be brooded for approximately 21 days, during which time the temperature in the shed should be maintained at 32°C. Gradually, this temperature is reduced to 22°C by 21 days, when the chicks can start ranging. Adequate access to commercial broiler feed and water must be ensured inside and outside the shed.
Also Read: How to brood day-old chicks
Free range farming advantages and disadvantages
On the other hand, the free-range system relies on allowing hens access to green pasture while supplementing their nutritional needs with the appropriate commercial feed available in the sheds. The grazing activity provides minimal nutritional benefits, as the balanced broiler rations already fulfill their dietary requirements.
By carefully selecting the appropriate breed and following the necessary husbandry practices, you can establish a successful free-range chicken farm and contribute to the sustainable production of high-quality poultry products.
