Day Old White Cockerel | 1 Carton production is preferred by small poultry farmers over broiler production because it is less expensive and less susceptible to disease. Cockerels are bred for consumption. Depending on the level of management offered, they will take anywhere from six months to a year to completely mature. They can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions. As a result, we always suggest them for new free-range poultry farms. Each carton typically contains 50 day-old cockerels packed securely for safe transport. This ensures minimal stress and injury during shipping.