Feed Summary
- Hatchery Stage: No feed is necessary for 1 to 3 days.
- Brooding Stage (0-8 Weeks): Kawmix Premium Waterfowl 16%, Turkey Grower 20%, Meat Maker 22%, Turkey Starter 28%
- Growing Stage (9-16 Weeks): Kawmix Premium Waterfowl 16%, Chick Starter 18%, Turkey Grower 20%, Meat Maker 22%
- Adult Stage (Over 16 Weeks): Kawmix Premium Waterfowl 16%, Turkey Grower 20%, Meat Maker 22%
Game bird and waterfowl husbandry involves the specialized care and management of birds raised for sport and conservation. This practice encompasses breeding, feeding, housing, and health management to ensure optimal growth and well-being. Effective husbandry techniques are essential for maintaining healthy populations, supporting habitat restoration efforts, and enhancing hunting opportunities. By focusing on these areas, enthusiasts and professionals can contribute to the sustainability and vitality of game bird and waterfowl species.
Hatchery Stage
At the hatchery, game bird and waterfowl eggs are incubated with precise control over temperature and humidity to ensure proper development. Incubation periods vary by species but typically range from 21 to 28 days for chicks, poults, ducklings, and goslings.
BROODING: 0-8 WKS
For the first four weeks (*or until fully feathered), birds must be raised in a controlled environment with specific temperatures tailored to the species. They are fed a high-protein starter feed (Kawmix Meat Maker 22%, Turkey Grower 20%, Turkey Starter 28% for game birds, and Kawmix Premium Waterfowl 16% or Meat Maker 22% for waterfowl) to support rapid growth and development. Always provide fresh, clean water and monitor closely for signs of illness.
Note that medicated feeds are toxic to waterfowl. Additionally, waterfowl require higher amounts of the vitamin niacin, particularly in the growth and development phases. Kawmix Premium Waterfowl has been formulated to meet this requirement.
GROWING: 9-16 WKS
As the birds grow, they transition to the growing stage. They are fed a grower feed tailored to their species, typically containing less protein than the starter feed: Kawmix Chick Starter 18% or Meat Maker 22% for game birds, Premium Waterfowl 16%, Turkey Grower 20%, or Meat Maker 22% for turkeys and waterfowl.
Ensure the young bird’s brood pen is adjusted to provide adequate space as they grow. Once fully feathered, temperature requirements decrease and the birds may transition to an outdoor grow-out pen.
ADULT: 16 WKS +
As birds mature, feed requirements change as well. Protein content stays the same or lowers depending on the species. For game birds, the protein content is usually around 16-18%, while waterfowl may continue to be fed a 16% waterfowl ration.
Clean water is always available throughout each stage, and feed formulations are adjusted based on the birds’ specific needs, environmental conditions, and overall management practices. The focus is on optimal growth, health, and welfare tailored to the birds’ particular purposes, whether for meat production, egg production, or display.
