Poultry Keepers Podcast Selecting Dual Purpose Chickens: Hands-On Traits That Matter for Meat and Eggs (Part 2), Classic Replay
Jan 13, 2026
Uncover the secrets of breeding dual-purpose chickens with insights on evaluating carcass quality and the importance of body structure. Dive into discussions on genetics versus nutrition, reflected through practical trials and real breeder experiences. Mandelyn shares her challenges with Marans and the significance of key traits in heritage chickens. Explore how natural feeds influence flavor and culinary quality, while strategies for maintaining a self-sustaining flock and balancing egg production take center stage. Perfect for enthusiasts ready to enhance their flocks!
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Learning From A One-Handed Mentor
- Mandelyn recalls following her granddaddy who handled birds with one hand and taught her early hands-on selection techniques.
- The story shows practical, old-school poultry experience shaping her approach to breeding.
Genes Set Potential, Nutrition Unlocks It
- Genetics strongly determines carcass shape but nutrition dramatically alters expression and performance.
- Mandelyn and Rip stress both genetics and feed are necessary to realize potential.
Breeding Trials With Marans
- Mandelyn shares a multi-year effort crossing Marans to tease breast width and growth, with mixed F1 results.
- The experiment taught her which traits hybridized and which did not, guiding further selection.