Types of feed

[CalgaryFarmer]

When we first started we used layer feed. We had hens only, no roosters. We were having feather problems, maybe some picking, maybe not properly growing. I can’t remember. This went on for close to a year. Switched to turkey grower (22% protein) with oyster shells on the side. Have not had a problem since. We would never go back.

 

[jreardon1918]

I m lucky to have a feed manufacurer near me. They have a store front. Also, I do not have roosters. So, I vary the feed as follows:

- Chicks have an in-run brooder. They get Chicken Starter Medicated crumbles 21% Protein, 3.5% Fat & 4.5% Fiber Max while in the brooder. They can venture into the main population starting at 4 weeks. The big girls can not get to the Chick feeder due to the chick size doors in the brooder. No Chicks this year. Probably next.

Main feeder in run:
- Complete Layer Pellet 16% Protein, 3% Fat & 4.5% Fiber Max when most pullets/hens are laying.
- When chicks are sharing the main run main feeder has Chicken Grower/Finisher Non-Medicated crumbles 16% Protein, 3.25% Fat & 6.5% Fiber Max. They are 4-20 weeks old.
- Game Bird Pellet 20% Protein, 3.5% Fat & 4.5% Fiber Max when most hens/pullets are not laying. This is what the feed store recommends for molting and non-laying big girls. Typically Nov-Jan.
- Oyster shell near the water station in an old rabbit feeder.

This sounds complicated but really is not. I also get day old chicks from this place. They are great for anybody local to SE Mass.