Poultry Resources for Beginning Farmers

Updated: March 30, 2021

Poultry

There are many different species of poultry that can be raised - from chickens to ostriches! The species you decide to raise will depend on the type of production you want to be involved with as well as your own personal preference. Poultry is usually classified into three categories: 1) egg layers, 2) meat-type, and 3) dual purpose. As a producer, select the characteristic that is most important for your production purposes. For more information check out the University of Maryland Extension Poultry website.

General

Developing a Free-Range Poultry Enterprise - University of Maryland Extension

This presentation is focused on the Introduction to Developing a Free Range Poultry Enterprise covering startup costs, housing options, bedding, and more.

Poultry: A Guide to Anatomy and Selected Species - University of Illinois

University of Illinois provides an overview of poultry in their publication Poultry: A Guide to Anatomy and Selected Species. This publication includes anatomy and a general overview of chickens, turkeys, ducks, guinea fowl, and more.

A Small-Scale Agriculture Alternative: Poultry (2902-1099) - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Provides information about how to start a Small Scale Agriculture Alternative: Poultry. This publication includes Breed selection tips, production advice, and more.

Management Requirements for Laying Flocks (2902-1085) - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Provides information about the Management Requirements for Laying Flocks, including when to purchase stock, floor space, litter, feed, ventilation, and more.

Management Requirements for Meat Bird Flocks (2902-1083) - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Provides information about the Management Requirements for Meat Bird Flocks, including when to purchase stock, floor space, litter, feed, ventilation, and more.

Economics

Poultry Operation Record Keeping Guide & Quick Reference Booklet - Maryland Department of Agriculture

Learn how to keep excellent records with the Poultry Operation Record Keeping Guide and Quick Reference Booklet provided by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Broiler Budget - University of Maryland Extension

Get access to a Broiler Enterprise Budget and sample Cash Flow Statement from the University of Maryland Extension Poultry website.

Processing

Processing Chickens (ASC-210) - University of Kentucky Extension

Learn the process, step-by-step on how to harvest poultry meat from this short University of Kentucky Extension publication on Processing Chickens.

Rabbit and Poultry Slaughter/Processing Requirements for FSIS Inspection Exempt Producers - Maryland Department of Agriculture

Before you start raising your flock learn the rules and requirements for poultry processors in Maryland with the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Rabbit and Poultry Slaughter Requirements.

Housing

Small Scale Poultry Housing (2902-1092) - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Utilize Virginia Cooperative Extension publication on Small Scale Poultry Housing to learn about space requirements, lighting, perches, ventilation, and more.

Health Management

Avian Disease Fact Sheet (2902-1094) - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Virginia Cooperative Extension introduces poultry health with their Avian Disease Fact Sheet covering transmission, prevention, and management.

Nutrition Management

How Much Will My Chickens Eat? (ASC-191) - University of Kentucky Extension

How much chickens eat depends upon many factors and may be driven by your desired outcome. Learn about the factors and much more from this publication from University of Kentucky Extension. Charts and cheat sheet included.