Feeding layer feed to non layers?

[catlikethief]

I just bought 5 pullets who are close to egg laying age. The farmer who sold them to me said he feeds all his birds 16% protein layer feed. So that's what I bought them.

Last night I bought two baby chicks (5 wks old) at one of my local feed stores. The lady who helped me, said she feeds them developer feed until they lay their first egg, then start with the layer feed. Also, that maybe it's not a good idea I feed the older girls the layer yet since it has high levels of calcium and their bodies don't need that until they lay.

So, what should my 4month old girls be eating?

 

[NewGuineaChooks]

I would feed -all- of them grower/raiser feed until your girls start laying. The pullets don't need the extra calcium until they are making egg shells, and the little ones can actually have bone growth issues if they have too much calcium while growing.

 

[catlikethief]

Quote:
Thank you, I figured the lady at the feed store was right but just needed more confirmation before i switched their food.