Are oyster shells absolutely necessary?

[chookchick]

I feed my pullets layer feed, but they also do eat some oyster shell. I think it's a good idea to have it available, just in case they might need a little more, or get other food that cuts down the percentage of calcium. Then the eggs will probably be good and hard, and cut down on the chances of egg-eating. I believe that free-rangers are able to supplement with insect "casings" (can't remember the term, early Alzheimers...), but chickens in a run are dependent on us for all their requirements.

 

[A.T. Hagan]

The calcium has to come from somewhere. Oyster shell is cheap, but if you're feeding a layer ration they may get enough from just that. I usually supplement with shell though as I find the layer ration usually has the mininum amount of calcium they can get away with. If your birds free range that means they may not get quite enough or they may over eat the layer ration to get the calcium they need even if they don't need the protein. Depends on the bird.

But you can also use egg shells, clam shells, feed grade ground limestone, and probably several other sources that haven't occurred to me. When a pullet first starts to lay the calcium initially comes out of their bones, but that can only last so long before she runs out. You really want to give her a calcium source before she reaches that point.

FWIW, except for those birds that aren't eating oyster shell I don't feed grit to anything and there is no gravel on the place. The oyster shell will work as grit though it may not last as long as harder stuff but since they need to eat it regularly that's OK. A chicken's gizzard does not care if it's granite, oyster shell, or a diamond ring it'll use whatever is available to grind stuff up.

.....Alan.

 

[cnj-tx50]

I feed Layena, treats, scraps and I have free choice oyster shell and grit. No one ever touches the grit and never touched the shell until last week when they emptied the pie pan. I believe they know when and how much they will need. So to have out if they want seems a good thing.

 

[chickylady]

I have never had to feed oyster shells. My eggs are perfect. I give them several hours of free range each day. The feed I buy is from Family Farm and Home. It is Naurto(sp?) 16% protein, $7.99 for 40lbs. If you notice soft shells on several occasions, then consider the oyster shells but I think the chickens know what they need themselves and seek it out while free ranging.