Heather compared a standard protein ration with 16% protein to a reduced protein ration with 13% protein to see how her heritage Chantecler chickens responded during the grow-out period.

In a Nutshell

• In 2019, Heather tracked the weight of three cohorts of chickens, taking more than 1,000 weight measurements of individual chickens.
• There were no consistent differences in the weight of chickens on the two protein rations throughout the grow-out period.
• There was also no detectable effect of reduced protein on finished live weight or dressed weight.
• In 2020, Heather continued to use the reduced protein ration and would like to continue the trial over several seasons for more confidence.