There
is no simple formula for balancing a ration suitable for breeding
or rearing fancy fowl. Vitamin and mineral nutrition, the quality
of protein provided, gut health, and the use of linseed or other
sources of omega 3 oils, are all key to producing successful birds.
Introducing a specialist poultry breeder pellet 4-6 weeks before
breeding starts can significantly improve fertility, hatchability
and chick survival rates, if combined with good management and incubation
techniques.
Optimum
vitamin supplementation is critical to all aspects of breeding,
from fertility and hatchability to proper development of the
newly hatched chicks. To achieve this it is better to feed
a carefully balanced diet rather than trying to mix one yourself
at home. Housed poultry are completely dependent on the vitamins
present in their compound food and any green vegetables that
are provided. Cereals are a relatively poor source of vitamins,
and feeding too much wheat or mixed corn can upset a balanced
ration.
Specialist
Poultry Breeder Pellets from the Small Holder Range provide
a high-energy, high-protein diet suitable for rare breed birds
and hybrids, in a pellet size small enough for bantams. With
boosted levels of vitamins, trace minerals and amino acids,
these pellets are formulated to assist fertility, hatchability
and chick survival rates. The feed also contains a blend of
soya, maize and linseed oils to ensure a healthy balance of
omega 3 and 6 oils, thus ensuring that it is also suitable
for producing good plumage on birds that are being shown.
All
Small Holder Range feeds are free from GM ingredients. Fully approved
by the Vegetarian Society, the range also avoids the use of artificial
or 'nature identical' flavours, growth promoters, yolk pigmenters
and medical additives.
Don’t
take chances with your birds’ nutrition. Small Holder feeds
are available throughout the UK. For further information write
to Norfolk Mill, Shipdham, Thetford, Norfolk, IP25 7SD, telephone
+44 (0)1362 822900, e-mailhelpline@smallholderfeed.co.uk,
or visit www.smallholderfeed.co.uk.