UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Extension is offering a new online course, Raising Small Flock Poultry, for people who are considering or are currently raising a small flock of poultry for profit.
Raising a small flock of poultry, from 100 to 3,000 birds, for meat or eggs requires a relatively small amount of start-up capital compared to larger livestock; however, turning a profit with a small flock can be a challenge without careful planning. Small flocks of poultry have small profit margins. If you keep track of expenses, set realistic prices, and raise healthy, productive birds, you may have a chance at making back your investment.
Modules within the course cover a wide array of principles that can assist in planning a poultry facility this is appropriate for your situation. These topics include:
- planning an appropriate poultry facility
- selecting and purchasing appropriate breeds, varieties, and strains of poultry
- taking care of poultry according to best management practices
- practicing appropriate biosecurity to keep birds safe and healthy
- recognizing some common poultry health issues and how to prevent or treat them
- understanding the special needs and practices of egg laying, meat, and exhibition poultry operations
- creating a marketing plan for your poultry products
- keeping the flock records you need for a successful operation
Participants will earn a certificate of completion upon passing the course. To learn more and register, visit the Penn State Extension website.
–Penn State Extension
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