I had a feather picking issue with my first Flock when I switched to a Layers feed 16% at a year old. I wanted the layers feed with extra Omega 3.
I switched back to a 18% layers feed and the picking continued. I bought Pinless Peepers and put on the 3 culprits for 3 weeks before I resolved the...
That's actually higher Protein for both compared to some brands.
16% Protein is adequate after 6 to 8 weeks.
Myself I don't feed less than 18% from hatch through adulthood.
I would just feed the Starter through 18 weeks, then decide what you want to do.
Myself I have 17 weeks old pullets and got...