The best bit of the season? Right now

SPRING has sprung! But for many of us early breeders, the beauty of spring began in the darkness of winter, with light and heat additions bringing on our birds.

As I write, we’re beginning a second round, with more chicks on the sticks than we’ve had for many a season. Still, a good start has not been without its problems. Early starts can mean clear eggs, not just from infertile/underdeveloped cocks but also from hens lacking fitness. I’d suggest if you breed early, make a note of when your cocks are bred. Usually, using over-year cocks helps to avoid clear eggs in the first round. Any second-round cocks can be utilised later in the year.

Now, clear eggs are never a real problem, it