Course Tutor
Sally Morgan of the Empire Farm What you will learn The popular day is led by Sally Morgan. A typical day starts with an introductory talk, followed by a tour of the poultry pens and an introduction to the different breeds that we keep at The Empire Farm. We have deliberately stocked a variety of different breeds of both laying and meat chickens, ducks and geese, so we will can discuss the pros and cons of each. We have also set up a variety of pens, from small self-contained ones that would suit a garden, to larger sheds with netted runs suitable for small commercial use. Topics cover all aspects of poultry keeping, including: - breeds of chickens, ducks and geese, and the characteristics, pros and cons of each
- raising chickens, ducklings and goslings for meat or eggs
- housing and paddocks, rotations
- feeding
- welfare issues
- disease
- predator control
- legal aspects
- buying stock
- breeding
- the pros and cons of incubators and broody hens
- organic poultry keeping
- slaughtering, plucking and preparation of the carcass
During the afternoon, we will demonstrate chicken slaughter and plucking, and then everyone can have a go at eviscerating a chicken to take home and eat. If you are already an experienced chicken keeper but would like to learn about the slaughter and preparation of table birds, you can come along for just the afternoon session. If you don't want to learn about slaughter and dressing chickens, you can come for just the morning. Cost for a half day course is £40 - please contact the office to check on availability of this option. Administration The numbers on this courses are limited to 12 people so that there is plenty of opportunity to discuss specific topics of interest. Much of this course takes place outside so warm weatherproof clothing and wellington boots are needed, plus a change of shoes. The price includes all tuition, course notes, light lunch and refreshments during the day. |  |
