Assortment

The quality of ornamental chickens and cockerels depends on many factors. It all starts with a strong genetic foundation. Appropriate housing, good hygiene, proper care and attention are equally important. And, of course, nutrition plays a vital role.

Whether the goal is outstanding appearance or producing high-quality hatching eggs, the right nutrition makes all the difference. Garvo feeds support the quality and strength of eggs, healthy chick development, and the condition of adult ornamental poultry.

Care and Breeding

Breeders aiming for top-quality birds begin preparing well before the breeding season. To achieve the highest fertility rates, breeding groups should be carefully matched and kept in lean condition. Birds also need time to become accustomed to one another.

Garvo breeder feeds help support optimal fertility and egg composition, resulting in vigorous chicks that hatch evenly and develop consistently.

During the chick stage, the focus is on the healthy development of the entire bird. Garvo chick feeds are specially formulated to support this growth. The mash has a fine texture, while the pellets are small (2 mm), making them highly palatable and easy for young chicks to consume.

Young cockerels and pullets have different nutritional requirements.

Cockerels develop a different body structure from hens. They grow larger frames, develop broader feathering, and generally build more muscle. As a result, they require higher levels of protein and other nutrients to support healthy growth.

For young pullets, gradual development is particularly important, as it helps prevent them from starting to lay eggs too early. Laying at too young an age can negatively affect body size as well as comb and leg colour.

Because birds are commonly fed mainly grain during poultry shows, it is important that both hens and cockerels become accustomed to grain-based diets before the show season.

Heavy breeds such as Brahmas, Orpingtons, Faverolles, and Marans, as well as game breeds such as Indian Game and Malay, require additional protein, preferably from animal sources. Higher protein levels contribute to faster growth, stronger feathers, and better muscle development.

Every breeding flock deserves a continuous supply of complete nutrition throughout the year, even outside the show season. Garvo recommends feeding 716 fancy chicken breeder mash or 717 fancy chicken breeder pellet year-round to support strong immunity, excellent health, and optimal breeding performance for the following season.

For poultry keepers who simply want healthy hens and plenty of fresh eggs, 730 layers mash (complete coarse) and 731 layers pellet (complete) provide complete daily nutrition.

Mash or Pellets?

Garvo complete chicken feeds are available as either mash or pellets.

Mash is produced using roller milling, resulting in a coarse, uniform texture that naturally stimulates the chicken’s gizzard and supports healthy digestion. For this reason, roller-milled mash is often preferred over pellets.

One possible disadvantage is that some chickens may begin eating selectively or dirty their feathers while feeding.

Pellets prevent selective feeding and minimise feed waste because every pellet contains the same balanced blend of nutrients. However, some chickens may consume more pellets than they actually need.

Choosing between mash and pellets depends on your management system and your flock’s needs. When switching from one type of feed to the other, allow your birds sufficient time to adapt gradually.

feeding advice