How to Raise Game Birds for Meat
The term "game bird" can be used to describe a large group of different creatures. Quail, pheasant, guinea fowl, partridges and pigeons can all be raised as game birds for meat or hunting. These birds were originally hunted in the wild and are now raised domestically.
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Things You'll Need
- Barn or shed
- Fenced property
- Nesting boxes
- Straw or shavings
- Game bird feed
- Dish
- Water
- Incubators
Instructions
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Choose an appropriate location. Most game birds should be raised in a combination of fenced and indoor settings to protect them from noise and predators. Use a shed or barn and a fenced yard.
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Equip your barn or shed with nesting boxes for the females to lay eggs and raise their young. This is especially important if you're raising the birds for egg production or to produce future generations. Spread straw or shavings in the boxes and over the floor.
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Feed your birds a feed produced specifically for them. Game birds require high levels of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Check with game bird suppliers for foods that satisfy these requirements. Feed a meat bird specific food; foods are different for game birds that will be hunted or are for egg production. Throw handfuls of feed to the birds twice a day.
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Set out several water dishes. Allow the birds to water in protected, fenced areas during the day to keep them healthy and active. Inactive birds will have less muscle and meat on their bones.
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Know the correct age for sending your game birds to market. Guinea fowls are best sent to market at 12 weeks, pheasants at 16 weeks, quail at 12 to 16 weeks, etc.
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Tips & Warnings
Many game birds need to be separated and raised in incubators after hatching.
It is illegal to raise game birds in many cities. Always research laws and application requirements before starting a game bird farm.
References
- Photo Credit suicidal quail image by Wendi Evans from Fotolia.com
