Almost ready for layer feed

[montverdechick]

My girls are 16 weeks old now. Can't believe how time has flown. Anyway, just wondering when to start giving them crushed oyster shell? Do I give it as grit or mix it in the food? How much? Thanks all!!

 

[4H kids and mom]

You should provide Oyster Shell free-choice (all the time) once they begin laying. Dont worry about measuring it. They will eat what they need when they need it.

No need to mix it in the food, just provide a seperate dish of it thats available at all times.

 

[Jimagination]

What about my chicks that are 5 weeks younger? SHould I worry about them getting to it?

 

[AccidentalFarm]

You don't want pullets to have oyster shell. There's a reason, I think they get too much calcium too early, but I'm not positive on that. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong. I just know that only laying hens need the added calcium oyster shell provides. If pullets get a little of it, I wouldn't worry, but if they have free choice, you could have problems.

 

[Jimagination]

Anyone have any ideas on how I could give it to my older hens and not my younger ones and what about my rooster?