Raising Broilers on Pasture With John Suscovich

Core Principles for Raising Healthy, Happy Broilers

Like most living things, chickens thrive when their basic needs are met. Focus on these essentials:

A Clean, Safe Place to Live
Chicken tractors are mobile shelters that offer protection from predators and weather. Daily moves get your birds off of yesterday’s toilet and onto tomorrow’s salad bar.

Clean Water
Broilers drink a surprising amount, especially in the heat. Check waterers morning and night to keep hydration up and stress down. 

As livestock nutrition expert Jeff Mattocks says, “If you wouldn’t drink out of the waterer, it’s not clean enough for your chickens.”

Nutritious Feed
Fast growth requires consistent, high-quality feed. Keep feeders full, raise feeder height as birds grow, and supplement with grit to aid digestion.

Fresh Air & Ventilation
Stale air and ammonia from manure lead to respiratory issues. Ensure your chicken tractor has good airflow and shade for hot days.

Breed Selection
Cornish Cross are efficient and fast. However, Heritage breeds or slower-growing broilers may offer better flavor and a more forgiving timeline.