Amount to feed?

[birdman4259]

Hi Everyone. New to the site and enjoying it immensely.
I just got my first laying hens and was wondering if I should be feeding free access or a daily measured amount. Also they have been in the coop and small fenced of area for approx. a week now. How long before I can let them free range so that they will come back to the coop?
Thanks. Sandy

 

[Percheron chick]

Just let them figure out how much they want and need. I like to put out what they "should" be able to clean up in 24 hours at a time. If it's empty, I add more. I have magpie problems and don't want to feed them anymore than I already do. Once they start spending the majority of the day outside, they will eat 1/3-1/2 the amount of layer.

 

[birdman4259]

Thanks for the reply. That's pretty much what I am doing now. I appreciate the info.

Sandy