Chicken assessment

Robbie · Post by **Robbie** » Mon Jul 11, 2016 7:52 am

I separated out my 9 week old cockerels from my pullets last night, what a rodeo that was. But I took the opportunity to check the body dimensions of the cockerels, to see which ones will be keepers. I'm trying to be colour blind, I'm measuring hip with, keel length, chest girth........ but using finger and hand width to measure as recommended by the ALBC does not seem to be working for me. I'm going to have to use a tape measure or caliper would be better. Does anyone know where I could get calipers for this sort of thing? They should be able to measure six inches.
Some are going to be easy to cull, as they have single combs, but quite a few seem very similar in size.

Post by **Killerbunny** » Mon Jul 11, 2016 7:59 am

Had the same problem with heritage turkeys last year, maybe 2 obvious culls and the rest OK according to ALBC guidelines LOL. Had a lot of girls too. Thankfully most went to breeding/good homes. This years assessment comes at 6 months.

Robbie · Post by **Robbie** » Mon Jul 11, 2016 10:47 am

Sounds like you have a nice flock there KB!

Post by **Killerbunny** » Mon Jul 11, 2016 10:56 am

Thanks!

Cuttlefish · Post by **Cuttlefish** » Tue Jul 12, 2016 6:54 am

I'm having the same issues. Keel to pelvic distance, and between the pelvic bones is ok with fingers but the back width is just "one handful of chicken". Maybe it takes more practice?
As far as calipers, I want to say Princess Auto, but not 100% sure. : )

Robbie · Post by **Robbie** » Tue Jul 12, 2016 8:16 am

Good idea Cuttlefish Princess Auto will probably have something that works. I think that having actual numbers will help, I'm not experienced enough to distinguish the differences by "feel". Feels like chicken.......