HYBRID POULTRY

HYBRID POULTRY......It was my initial intention to give a detailed history of the development of the hybrid layer from its early start, to its standing today, as a prolific modern layer. However after some consideration I recognised I did not have the ability to cover the 100 years development, in a few concise paragraphs. The history of the hybrid is very interesting and for those of you, who wish to better understand it, try to get hold of the back copies of the “Practical Poultry Mags”. (Aug and Sep’ 04  issues). Each has a well written feature in them by Fred Hams and George Allen, (recognised experts in this area).

For the purpose of giving you the opportunity of agreeing with me, that the hybrid is the ideal “beginners bird”, I will restrict myself to giving a brief, broad, overview of their history and development. By doing so, I hope to give you some basic understanding and maybe convince you, this is where to start.

The Short List further down in the text may show more clearly what I feel are the main benefits of starting with "Modern Hybrid Layers"…….and maybe from there, you can decide, if they are for you.

“Short History of Development”

 The hybrid’s initial development started around 100 years ago by individual poultry enthusiasts, who tried to increase the laying capabilities of their birds Their approach differed from past poultry keepers…….certainly a  more methodical, professional, and maybe even scientific approach, showed by careful selection, production of  eggs could improve substantially. Within this selection process a greater emphasis was put on the laying capacity of individuals hens, as well as the ongoing work with the range of quality breeds, that had already established themselves over a long period, as good layers. the general flock.

 It would appear that as much effort was put into keeping meticulous records of the number of eggs produced by the best birds, as there was in finding the best layers within the best birds and breeds. And it was probably the emphasis on  recording precisely, the exact numbers of eggs laid by the best egg layers individually, among the better recognised pure breeds, that had the greatest influence in the development of the hybrid layer. Selecting the best of these birds and by careful cross breeding and by the recording of accurate figures, they established the first steps towards the development of the modern hybrid.  The main leader in this field at this time was Tom Barron.....(the Barron, ISA WARREN Group).

But there were many others whose contribution was not less important These other enthusiasts were developing improved layers following the same methods. And it was only a matter of time before the bigger breeders and commercial companies invested their time, money and expertise and moved it on to eventually what it is today.

 There are many laying hybrids available today and although each owner may have their own particular preference, the quality and standard of each kind should always be consistently high. Whatever the type, it should suit your need.

But it is important for the buyer to know, that each type of, “Recognised Hybrid Layers” can only be bred under license. Sold and supplied by the individual breeders, or company only……. or by their appointed agents. They have an invested interest in maintaining the high standards (and as such their reputation). .....And  have paid big money, as well as time, for this exclusive franchise.

Buying anywhere else, will mean you are not getting what you paid for. Buying a sub standard layer…..a very inferior product that will not do what you expect. And on a wider  and more important scale, tarnish the image and reputation of the authentic hybrid layer and the licensed breeder.

It is unlikely any buyer, especially someone who is new to poultry, would intentionally buy a “ poor copy”. But it is just as true that some characters will try to pass off a bird that looks identical, as the real thing. It is simply dishonest….to you…to everyone.

Every brown egg layer hybrid in the UK is basically descended from the selected strains of the Rhode Island Red, or New Hampshire Reds. The exact origin of the female strains, are usually a well kept hidden secret……for obvious reasons.

One hundred years in  careful selection and development….as well as the investment of a great deal of time and money…..and yet there are still some dishonest sellers, who in a matter of minutes, are willing to put any male RIR with basically whatever hens are at hand, hatch and grow on. And then sell these poor quality birds, as “named hybrid layers”.

Finally on this point.... this is no criticism of the enthusiastic, legitimate poultry breeders, who are putting a great deal of their time, effort and money, to take the laying hybrid a step further to produce new lines and new strains. After all that is how it all started.

At this time again I should emphasise, we are a very small business. More like enthusiasts. And certainly no experts. What is written here…..and for that matter, anywhere in our website, is only our view. It may be wrong or badly written…..please don’t hold us responsible if you disagree or feel we are wide of the mark in our views, or in the information given. So with the emphasis on buying your “Hybrid Layer”, from a recognised supplier/breeder here is my list.

“NEW to POULTRY?”~ the benefits of the “AUTHENTIC HYBRID (pol) LAYER”

      1)      Leaders in egg laying.

2)      Hardy, healthy robust.

3)      Sold with full vaccination programme.

4)      Friendly, calm temperament.

5)      Good egg to food ratio.

6)      Rarely broody.

7)      Less expensive than pure breeds.

8)      Buying hens only…no males.

9)      History of proven reliability.

10)  Good feathering.

11)   Consistency in standard.

12)    Can source the Quality.

………..and finally, you will love them.

Some beginners start here with the intention of gaining the experience to move on to the sometimes more difficult rarer pure breeds……And then decide instead, to increase their present flock of hybrids. One reason, because of increasing demand from family, friends, neighbours and a growing band of regular customers, for their, lovely, big, fresh, eggs,…..and two reason, as above, they simply love them!

HOPE YOU AGREE OUR NEW ISA BROWNS ARE THE BIRDS FOR YOU