2 questions- 1 about feed and 1 for a List of plants harmful to chickens?

[janeellison]

Hi, I am new to BYC with my first set of chicks. They are 14 weeks old so I will switch to laying feed in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, I want to get more chicks (4 isn't enough!!). It's so fun!

So, my first question is that after the chicks get older and I feel like it's time to introduce them to the first 4, will the chicks eat the layer feed? Will the older chicks eat the starter feed? Will this be harmful? I know we don't want to eat eggs from chickens that have eaten starter feed so I guess I'll close that coop door off during the day? I have sort of a chicken playground that is a large coop beside a dog fence. Also inside the dog fence is the chicken tractor where "juvies" live until they are ready for the "big house." Ideally they can all play outside together then go to their respective homes in the afternoon until they are all eating the same food. Thoughts?

Also, I want to create a chicken garden to disguise the coop and fence. Could anyone shoot me a some thoughts on plants to avoid? I have a "chicken gardens" book but there is some confusing info.

Thanks!
Jane

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! Yes, chicks will eat Layer if it is available, you do not want that because of the excess calcium. Most people with mixed flocks feed some sort of All-Ages or Flock Raiser type food, or even Chick Starter and just have oyster shell on the side for the Laying hens, they will eat what they need and the chicks will leave it alone.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/627282/comprehensive-list-of-poisonous-plants-and-trees Here is a list of poisonous plants, that being said, it is really long list and actually for the most part chickens will avoid plants that are not good for them as long as they are not bored or desperate ... If it is in a run they will eat about anything, but if they have plenty of room to roam they tend to leave the bad stuff alone.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

Chicks will eat any type of food that is availble. They will eat the layer feed. This is not good as layer feed will damage their kidneys, inner organs and reproductive track. Like Kelsie said, some people use flock raiser. But, this is not just for laying hens; it's for all ages of chickens so it doesn't have the same nutrients hens require. Hens also need calcium, this you can go ahead and give out even with the chicks in there. Chicks usually don't eat something like this until they need it.

Here are some herbs and plants to keep away from you flock: Azalea, philodendron, rhododendron, sweet pea, black nightshade, foxglove, oleander, castor bean, vetch, henbane, irises, lantana, buttercup, St. john's wort, trumpets vine, morning glory, datura, clematis and honeysuckle.
Normally chickens won't eat something they know is bad or toxic to them; avoid these plants anyway.

Feel free to ask any other questions and be sure to visit the learning center.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Looks like Kelsie and Mountain Peeps has set you straight. I am mixing in chicks to and adult flock right now and I am using non medicated starter feed for the entire flock. Oyster shell on the side. The layers can get their calcium from the oyster shell. Never leave layer feed out with chicks around. As stated above, it can harm their kidneys.

Good luck with establishing your flock and welcome to ours!

 

[drumstick diva]

Also roosters shouldn't eat layer feed.

 

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC! You have been given some good advice and links by other BYC members. What kind of chickens do you have?

 

[gander007]

Alright Jane,

great to have you joining the BYC flock

 

[Frindizzle]

from Washington! BYC is the best fowl website you can find.

I hope you feel glad you signed up! In our flock we have great people and it is always great to have a new member In our flock, we have no pecking order!

By the way, not saying that you will do anything bad, but no fowl play