Calcium to mama raising chicks?

[kimberley848]

I let my broody hatch and raise some chicks, my first time ever dealing with chicks, my older girls were all 10wks and older when I got them. Anyway, Lacey has done a great job raising her babies, (4) they're almost 4wks old, and Lacey started laying eggs again. Do I put oyster shell out for her? But she shares EVERYTHING with the chicks, won't that be an issue? I know I can put it high enough the chicks can't reach it, but I'm also positive she'll spill plenty to go around. They're all currently eating starter chick mash.

 

[abraga]

Well..u could just give her layer feed if ur concerned about the oyster shell. I toss oyster shell and grit in the pen for the mommas and babies. Momma hens are already weakened a bit by laying on eggs then dealing with chicks. If she' laying...she needs the nutrients...i think the chicks will b ok

 

[song of joy]

It's fine to put out oyster shell for the hen. The chicks might try it, but I don't think they'll find it desirable in comparison with their regular food, so they'll probably leave it alone.

 

[lazy gardener]

Agreed. Keep Mama on the higher protein starter (I use unmedicated) and give her OS on the side.