Spring Chickens Plan for Spring Success
Every species follows its own rhythm— and on a mixed farm, those rhythms interlock like gears. Recognizing those cycles allows you to plan breeding waves that stagger workload and resource use efficiently.
Nutrition: The Common Thread Across Species
Regardless of species, fertility starts with nutrition. On diversified farms, feed systems are often integrated— grain mixes, forage and supplements can be shared or rotated between species, reducing waste and maintaining consistent quality.
Poultry & Quail
As laying season approaches, shift birds onto a breeder ration( 18 to 20 % protein) rich in vitamin E, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients support both egg viability and sperm motility. Offer oyster shells for calcium, and grit for digestion.
In smaller species such as Coturnix quail, overfeeding males or crowding pens can reduce fertility— aim for a ratio of one male to four to five females, and rotate cocks every few months for even coverage. Quail need a higher protein( 26 to 30 %) than chickens and ducks. Make sure that food bins are labeled so the birds get their appropriate nutrition and ration.
Dairy Goats
Late gestation or pre-breeding does benefit from energy-rich feed without excess protein. Supplement with copper, selenium and vitamin E, which are critical for reproductive health and strong kids.
Diversified operations often leverage pasture management: goats grazing in rotation after poultry flocks helps break parasite cycles and naturally fertilize fields, creating a symbiotic balance between species.
Heritage Pigs
For pigs, balance is key. Too much body fat leads to poor conception rates; too little, and lactation suffers. Feed a 16 % protein ration with balanced lysine and moderate fat. Adding fresh greens or fermented feed from poultry operations can improve gut health and nutrient absorption.
Spring’ s mild temperatures make this the perfect time to breed or rebreed sows before the summer heat sets in.
Health Checks: Prevention Before Conception
Each species has unique health benchmarks, but the principle is universal: no breeding until animals are sound, healthy and stress-free.
Diversified farms benefit from shared observation time— walking pens and pastures daily lets you assess all species at once.
• Poultry / Quail: Check for mites, lice and respiratory issues. Parasites can tank fertility fast. Trim nails and inspect vents for cleanliness.
• Goats: Check FAMACHA scores, trim hooves and conduct pre-breeding fecal tests. Update CDT vaccines and ensure minerals are accessible.
• Pigs: Deworm two to three weeks before breeding and check for mange or hoof lesions. Monitor boar mobility and libido.
Treating issues early prevents costly complications later— and maintaining species-specific logs in one
22 Winter 2025 www. chickenwhisperermagazine. com