28% feed?

[Shawna89]

I have a mixed bunch of birds. Chickens, quail, and turkey. I feed layer which I have heard that it isn't enough protein for the turkey and quail, so my question is: if I get the 28% gamebird feed can I also feed that to my chickens?

 

[duluthralphie]

I feed game bird feed to my chickens sometimes.

It will not hurt them. In fact the higher the protein the faster they seem to gain weight. With the CornishX's the hatcheries recommend around 24% protein. It will make them grow fast. However, with fast growth you get the health problems.

Which is why I now feed 18% to my CX's chicks and make them work for it.

Around here game bird feed does not have medication in it. I have no idea if that is the way it is every where. I do not feed any medicated feed. I want better meat.

My ideas and may not be the majority.

 

[LakeMomNY]

My understanding is that if you offer two feeders, one with a high protein ration and the other with grain, the chickens will self regulate protein vs carb intake. Should also offer calcium on the side with this method.

 

[Shawna89]

I always offer oyster shell and grit, plus they free range durning the day on some days.

 

[Shawna89]

Should I also offer grains?

 

[Chris09]

Should I also offer grains?

What all are you feeding, Do you feed a lot of treats and or scraps?

 

[Shawna89]

Usually sunflower seeds or wheat in the evening. If I have some fruits and veggies they get that. I would say a ton of extras, but they do get a little something every day.

 

[LakeMomNY]

The research I have read (don't remember the source, a few scientific studies) suggests putting a high protein ration in one feeder and grain (wheat, corn, whatever is cheapest) in an identical feeder. Give free access to both. Chickens will take what they need of each and self balance their diet. Results in a better feed/egg ratio than feeding a straight layer feed.

 

[Chris09]

Usually sunflower seeds or wheat in the evening. If I have some fruits and veggies they get that. I would say a ton of extras, but they do get a little something every day.

You can feed about 10-20% treats with that high of protein.
If you wanted you could feed a mixture of 10 lbs scratch to 90 lbs feed even 1/2 lb sunflower seeds and 9 1/2 lbs scratch to 90 lbs feed then still offer some fruits and veggies.

 

[Shawna89]

Ran into a problem, it's medicated