I could really use some help! I have (had) one dozen ringneck pheasants and as suggested by the feedstore, started them on Turkey/Gamebird starter, at 10 weeks I switched them over to Triple duty (as suggested by the feedstore) since I was giving that to my Rhodie hens as well. Within one week of the switch, I lost seven birds to Cocci. I bought Teramycin (sp?) and have saved one Rooster and four hens, they are at day two of the Teramycin and the package said to continue for one to two weeks.
D.F. of pinecrest farms
I was told by the feedstore that gamebirds should not be on medicated feed. Apparently the starter feed did have meds in it and the switch along with a sudden heatwave may have led to the outbreak?
My question is whether I should continue with the triple duty (a non-med feed) or go ahead and put them on the more expensive but medicated Turkey/Game Bird grower? I am really afraid of losing the rest of my pretty birds.
I would appreciate any advice and thank you in advance for your time.
KH
By 8389 on Wednesday, June 6, 2001 - 01:32 am:
You should always use a medicated game bird feed it does cost a bit more but it is well worth it,ithas an ingredient such as monensin as an aid in the prevention of coccidiosis,also a 1/4 teaspoon of terramycin added to 1 quart of water for the first 3 or 4 days is very helpful along with a 1/4 teaspoon of poultry electrolite added to the same quart of water.As far as older pheasents like yours keep them on a medicated feed until they are old enough for a layer or breeder feed.I hope this helps good luck.