still trying to understand oyster shell

iPeanut1990

Chirping
5 Years
May 7, 2014
237
8
81
Tulsa, Oklahoma
My chickies are only 10 weeks old this week so I know they don't need it yet but I'm still confused on oyster shell. I know they won't need it for at least another 6+ weeks but is it better to give it to them as an "insurance policy" type thing or wait until they need it? What age should I start introducing it? Just before they start laying? How do I know if they're getting enough? Do you throw it on the ground or put it in a bowl like I have my grit?

Also what age should I unblock the nesting boxes or should I wait until they start laying?
 
Last edited:
Oyster shell is for calcium, birds will eat it when they require it. I only put it out after the first egg, young birds not laying do not need it at all only birds whom are laying, i keep it in a bowl in the coop, i never force it to the birds, it's completely free choice.
 
Last edited:
Generally, you put it out when the pullets begin laying or you suspect they are about to do so. If you have a mixed flock of youngsters and adults, a small feeder on the wall just for oyster shell will suffice. Just hang it so only the adults, or near-adults, can reach it. The youngsters may eat some but probably won't eat much of it, not enough to do harm.

If you have only youngsters, they do not need oyster shell at all. That is for laying hens only.
 
Last edited:

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom