Raising free-range or “kampung” chickens is a traditional yet profitable practice that has gained renewed interest. These chickens are popular for their resilience, natural taste, and ability to adapt to different environments. However, to ensure they remain productive, farmers must focus on providing proper care, balanced nutrition, and a healthy environment. This guide provides practical tips on how to raise free-range chickens effectively for long-term productivity.
Understanding the Nature of Free-Range Chickens
Unlike commercial broilers or layers, kampung chickens grow slower and require different management styles. They are hardy birds but can easily lose productivity without proper attention. By understanding their natural behavior, farmers can design management strategies that suit their needs while optimizing egg and meat production.
Housing and Comfort
Provide Adequate Shelter
A comfortable and safe chicken house is the foundation of productivity. The coop should protect chickens from rain, wind, and extreme sunlight. Ventilation is equally important, as poor airflow can cause stress and increase the risk of disease.
Ensure Sufficient Space
Overcrowding reduces egg-laying performance and slows growth. Each bird should have enough room to move freely, forage, and rest. Providing outdoor access where chickens can roam and scratch naturally will also improve their health and reduce stress.
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Feeding for Productivity
Balanced Diet
Although kampung chickens are skilled foragers, natural feed sources alone are not enough for optimal productivity. Supplement their diet with grains, protein sources like soybean meal or fish meal, and vitamins.
Consistent Feeding Schedule
Feeding at regular times helps regulate metabolism and ensures uniform growth. Avoid sudden changes in diet, as this can disrupt egg production. Farmers should also provide clean, fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration and stress.
Health Management
Preventive Care
Chickens exposed to the outdoors are more vulnerable to parasites and diseases. Regular vaccinations and deworming schedules should be maintained to keep the flock healthy.
Monitoring and Isolation
Always observe chickens for early signs of illness, such as lethargy, reduced appetite, or irregular egg-laying. Sick birds should be separated immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Improving Egg Production
Lighting and Natural Cycles
Kampung chickens often produce fewer eggs compared to commercial layers. Farmers can stimulate laying by providing adequate natural or artificial lighting for around 14–16 hours a day.
Nest Box Arrangement
Egg production improves when hens feel safe and comfortable. Clean, dry nest boxes should be provided to encourage hens to lay consistently.
Breeding for Better Results
Selecting Strong Breeders
To maintain productivity, choose healthy and active roosters and hens for breeding. Birds with strong immunity and consistent laying performance should be prioritized to create a resilient flock.
Record Keeping
Tracking the performance of each generation helps identify the best bloodlines for future flocks. Keeping simple records of growth rates, egg production, and health will make management more effective.
Environmental Management
Maintain Clean Surroundings
Dirty environments attract pests, spread diseases, and cause stress to chickens. Regularly clean the coop, remove wet litter, and control waste to keep conditions hygienic.
Predator Protection
Free-range chickens are vulnerable to predators like snakes, dogs, or wild animals. Secure fencing and predator-proof housing are essential for safety and peace of mind.
Conclusion
Raising kampung chickens productively requires a mix of traditional methods and modern farming practices. By focusing on housing, nutrition, health, and environment, farmers can ensure their flock thrives and provides steady egg and meat production. With patience and consistent care, free-range chicken farming can become both sustainable and profitable.