Description and characteristics of the productivity of Plymouth rock chickens, the subtleties of keeping

When planning to raise chickens, many people wonder which type to choose. Plymouthrock is considered a good breed of chickens, the description of which will answer all questions. With proper care, small chicks turn into adult birds with a strong physique. In a short period of time, a person will be provided with egg and meat products.

Historical reference

The chicken species first appeared in America, so it is often found under the name American Plymouthrock. The variety was obtained in the 19th century as a result of crossing many breeds. The breed received official recognition in 1910.

General description and characteristics of the breed

Knowing this information, a person can easily recognize the breed without buying a fake.

Appearance

This color is available:

• white;
• blue;
• partridge;
• pale yellow;
• striped;
• black.

The feathers of striped roosters have a lighter shade. Typically, the stripes end at the base of the feather. The Plymouthrock fluff has no obvious pattern, but the lines are slightly visible.

The medium-sized head has a leaf-shaped crest. The number of teeth ranges from 4 to 6 pieces. The eyes are orange and the beak is yellow. The body is rectangular, elongated and wide. The neck is straight, the chest and stomach are full. The tail has thick feathering. The wings fit tightly to the body and are set high.

Temperament

By nature, chickens are peaceful and curious. The Plymouth rock does not attack or act viciously towards other birds. Females often suffer attacks from other birds and are unable to defend themselves.

Productivity

The breed is considered an egg-meat breed. Due to its versatility, the Plymouthrock breed is bred not only at home, but also in industrial settings. The weight of a rooster is 4 kg, females - 2.5, but some especially large ones reach 3 kg.

Young chickens that reach the age of 6 months begin to lay eggs. Moreover, the level of egg production remains high throughout the year. The shell is light brown in color.

Hatching instinct

The breed is characterized by a highly developed maternal instinct.Hens incubate the eggs, and when the chicks hatch, they protect them from other birds. Chickens practically do not leave eggs in the nest, which allows you to get a brood of young animals without using an incubator.

Types of Plymouth Rocks

There are many types of breed. However, the most common are the striped Plymouthrocks with a predominant white color. There are also crossbreeds.

Main advantages and disadvantages

A large number of positive aspects guarantee successful bird breeding:

• early puberty;
• egg production is above average;
• good immune system;
• rapid development of chickens and weight gain;
• calm temperament;
• activity;
• beautiful feather color and overall appearance.

Despite the good taste of meat and the large number of eggs laid by chickens, Plymouthrock also has disadvantages:

• demanding diet;
• high cost of chicks;
• the long process of fledging chicks.

Before deciding whether to breed a breed or not, the advantages and disadvantages are carefully weighed.

Breed conditions

Includes various aspects - arrangement of the chicken coop, walking area, nutrition and care.

Chicken coop

The room for chickens should be spacious and free of objects that could cause injury. Requires installation of partitions and high perches. The floor covering is covered with a layer of hay or straw. Peat is an alternative.

Walking area

Plymouthrock needs sunshine and fresh air all year round. The walking area must be fenced with material on which the birds cannot be injured. If necessary, the patio is covered with a net for greater security.

Drinkers and feeders

Equipment for food and water can be purchased or made independently.An excellent option for chicks are plastic feeders and drinkers with dosage options. For adult chickens, handmade wooden feeders are suitable.

How to cope with the winter period

In severe frosts, Plymouthrock should not be allowed outside, even despite the resistance of the immune system. The large number of feathers and physique help to survive the cold. But the comb and earrings are freezing, since there is no feathering there.

Plymouth rock gets sick when the temperature drops to -5 degrees. In order for chickens to safely survive the winter period, the owners accustom them to this starting in October.

Molting and break in egg production

Loss of plumage is a natural process, so you should not associate the phenomenon with disease. Molting occurs in November and begins with the onset of pre-winter cold. The period lasts on average from 2 to 3 months. During the molting period, the Plymouth rock stops laying eggs.

Planned herd replacement

Chickens of this breed can live for a long time. 3 years after birth, they lay much fewer eggs, and the taste of the meat loses its quality. Therefore, it is recommended to update the herd.

What to feed the bird

The eating preferences of adult chickens and young chickens differ.

Chicks

While Plymouthrock is growing, people must carefully monitor their diet. Starter feeding is divided into two types. In the first case, it is ground boiled yolk. The second food option is boiled corn grits. When choosing food, preference is given to the second option. Corn grits are easily digestible and do not harm the Plymouthrock’s digestive system.

From the second week of life, the bird is given a mixture of egg yolk and semolina. When the bird reaches one month of age, coarse grain and freshly cut grass are introduced into the bird’s diet.During the day, Plymouthrock is given fresh root vegetables and vegetables. This ensures that the body is saturated with additional microelements and vitamins.

When birds reach the age of one and a half months, they are given grain or balanced feed. Some individuals receive fermented milk products or other products that help restore the functionality of the immune system. As a rule, such chicks are retarded in growth and development.

Adults

The diet of adult chickens includes:

1. Wet mixtures based on boiled vegetables, cereals and low-fat broth.
2. Whole grain.
3. In warmer months, fresh grass is added.
4. Combined feed - wheat, corn and barley.

When it gets colder, Plymouthrocks will especially benefit from a wet mash. Whole grains should be readily available for consumption throughout the year. Combined feeds are given in small quantities, as additives play a role.

Increasing the volume of feed by 10-15% during the cold season helps maintain body temperature.

Diseases of the breed

Thanks to its strong immune system, Plymouthrock rarely gets sick. The sources of diseases are parasites, so you need to get rid of them urgently. All that is required of a person is to keep the chicken coop clean, feed the birds and regularly carry out preventive measures.