Lame Legs and under-developed feathers

[TaraChick]

Hello, I've been a poultry raiser (chickens, ducks & geese) for many decades now and never had any health issues with our birds. But my husband & I tried to save money this year and started feeding our new ducklings & goslings home made soaked & sprouted feed (oats, wheat, corn, buckwheat) adding appropraly sized/cut fresh greens, peas for niacin, dug up worms, organic eggs, kelp flakes, etc. We realize we're not as exact as commercial feed - but tried to mimick the required nutrients as best as possible especially niacin & protein amounts. They were all very healthy the first two weeks, but they very sadly started limping the third week and have 2 that can'not even stand. Some also have under-developed feathers on their neck and backs. We monitor them very closely and do not observe any pecking order pecking of feathers. After much crying and feeling guilty- I dusted myself off and hubby & I are doing our best to try and bring them back to health. We started them on a human grade niacin supplement (50 grams per day) a few days ago, which has helped a little and just went back to feeding them commercial feed as their prominent diet (still with greens/fresh foods added) - but really appreciate Backyard Chickens community of helpers for further advice and testimonies !!!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

The limping may be from mareks. How old are they. The feathers not growing would make me think they aren't getting enough protein. I personally would not feed worms as they can give chickens roundworms. Daily protein requirements are 16-18% protein and most of what you are feeding is low in protein.

Geese can survive on good grass. Chickens and ducks need more protein in their diet.