7 months Not Laying, What Feed Do They Need?

[scjcb37]

I have a new flock of mixed breeds; 1 Lavender Orpington, 1 English Orpington, 1 Speckled Sussex, 1 Easter Egger, 3 Olive Eggers, 1 Mottled Cochin, and 1 Australorp Roo. They are 7 months old and are not laying as of yet (so am not expecting anything until Spring). We live in a colder climate with Winter typically going to 0*F for the low, if a cold snap, maybe a bit lower. They are in an 8x8 coop, plus nesting boxes off the side. Their run is about 16 x 20. All appear happy and healthy. Now my question is; what feed should they be on at this point? And, any thoughts on why no eggs? I've never had any of my girls hold out this long. Thank You for any input!

 

[FlipFlopFarmer6279]

I start feeding my chickens layer feed when they lay their first eggs.

 

[FlipFlopFarmer6279]

Some people start feeding them layer feed at six months though.

 

[FlipFlopFarmer6279]

Are you sure they're not hiding their eggs?

 

[scjcb37]

I start feeding my chickens layer feed when they lay their first eggs.

So you keep them on chick feed until then?

 

[scjcb37]

Are you sure they're not hiding their eggs?

No, no place to hide them.

 

[JedJackson]

I would give them flock raiser feed, 16% to 20% protein, with a side dish of free choice oyster shell.

 

[FlipFlopFarmer6279]

Yeah I keep them on grower feed until they lay their first eggs. I also have another feeder with oyster shells in it just in case.