Since becoming a breeder, Adrien Pouxvielh is proud to have avoided the slaughterhouse for all his laying hens. Disapproving of this radical end, he preferred to give them a second life in the gardens by organizing sales on the farm. The fourth edition of adoption will be held on Sunday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to noon, on the website…
Since becoming a breeder, Adrien Pouxvielh is proud to have avoided the slaughterhouse for all his laying hens. Disapproving of this radical end, he preferred to give them a second life in the gardens by organizing sales on the farm. The fourth edition of adoption will be held on Sunday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to noon, on the Picotines site in Saint-Aubin-de-Médoc (at 1060 route du Mayne d’Estève). 1600 gallinaceae are for sale at the price of 5 euros per hen. Reservations (two at least) are required on the operator’s website (www.lespicotines.com).
“They arrive with us at the age of 4 months and we keep them for 14 months more. During this period, they lay between 5 and 6 eggs per week. Then, the egg laying declines. From retirement, we are more likely to have 3 or 4 eggs. This yield is no longer sufficient for a farm with fixed costs. However, it is largely suitable for individuals,” emphasizes the farmer.
Good gestures
What are the right actions to take so that the experience does not turn into a hassle? Already, candidates for adoption should not arrive with their hands in their pockets on the big day. It is preferable to provide a box or a transport cage to ensure the transfer of the animals in the best conditions. It is obvious that any change in environment can have an impact on egg laying.
At home, the size of the chicken coop must be adapted to the area of the garden. “They need a house, a nesting box with hay and access to an enclosed run. This is better for protection against predators. Between 20 to 30 square meters of range for two hens is sufficient,” indicates the breeder who chose organic from the start of his activity. How does this translate into his daily life? “The routes are not processed. I do not use any chemical inputs or pesticides. The food is also 100% organic. »
Special seed mix
In terms of food, Adrien Pouxvielh recommends a varied diet. “Some people think they only eat corn, that’s not true. They need a mixture of seeds for laying hens (ideally organic) based on wheat, corn, alfalfa, etc. Everything they need to be healthy and lay eggs properly. »
Also know that chickens are incredible allies in terms of recycling food waste and gardening. Fruit and vegetable peelings, leftover starchy foods, cooked meals or crushed oyster shells do not scare them. With a few exceptions such as raw potatoes, onion peels or banana and citrus peels which can be toxic. A water trough with clear, fresh water, a small corner of shade, grass, a patch of soil to scratch to find worms and larvae will complete the pullets’ paradise. Until the end of their beautiful retirement.
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