NEW ALPACA PRODUCT

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NB: NO HENS AVAILABLE UNTIL XMAS 2010

Hens arrive as one day old chicks and are sold as backyard layers once they reach one and a half years old. This is because as they get older they require more feed than can be sustained on a commercial scale and eggs can start to lose optimum presentation. However, not all eggs reveal changes at this age and the ones that do remain perfectly good to eat.

Groups and individuals interested in backyard layers are invited to make contact according to supply.

Chickens are twelve dollars each, four dollars of which will be donated to the ACT Eden Monaro Cancer support group who have our details regarding sales.

Setting the right price dissuades neglectful ownership and unnecessary butchering. The chickens have plenty of egg laying years ahead of them and deserve responsible and caring minders. If this can be achieved while contributing to a worthy cause, all the better.

Suggested preparation for backyard layers

Hens wings are not clipped so well developed muscles mean they can more easily fly over high fences. It is therefore important to either build your fences higher or enclose the ceiling of your outdoor area.

Trees are important for shade and climbing but some are poisonous such as The Oleander tree or plants like ivy. Pine trees and most natives are fine. Pick an area with plenty of grass. Ideally set up rotated area so grass may grow back.

Constant fresh water supply is ESSENTIAL. You can buy drinkers to attach to your garden tap with a float to ensure water on demand without wastage.

Chickens love table scraps but don't give them raw potato , tomato leaves or rhubarb. No junk food either or anything with high salt or sugar content. Other than this you need only fill their feeder with layer pellets as it is emptied. You will find they much prefer your food scraps.

Chickens spend much time scratching about so it's important their area is clear of pesticides and chemicals. This includes nests and obviously feeding and watering containers. No toxic materials in nesting box. Please see links page for more information.

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