Can I feed BB Turkeys chicken grower feed at 8 weeks and beyond?

[ForFlocksSake]

I am getting my poults this week and purchased some game bird starter feed for their first 8 weeks. That is 30% protein. I noticed that most feed for after 8 weeks is around 18-20% protein. I have some starter/grower chicken feed from Kalmbach that is 20% protein crumbles and Im wondering if I can use that for the poults when they transition off the 30%. Is there a big difference between chicken feed and all flock for raising BB for meat?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I switch to a chick starter after 6-8 weeks, than an all flock as soon as they can eat the pellet. I have heritage, so I'm not sure if it's different for meat birds. It might be better to feed a meat bird ration.

 

[ForFlocksSake]

I switch to a chick starter after 6-8 weeks, than an all flock as soon as they can eat the pellet. I have heritage, so I'm not sure if it's different for meat birds. It might be better to feed a meat bird ration.

are they able to eat crumbles when they're older?

 

[R2elk]

I am getting my poults this week and purchased some game bird starter feed for their first 8 weeks. That is 30% protein. I noticed that most feed for after 8 weeks is around 18-20% protein. I have some starter/grower chicken feed from Kalmbach that is 20% protein crumbles and Im wondering if I can use that for the poults when they transition off the 30%. Is there a big difference between chicken feed and all flock for raising BB for meat?

You can but I wouldn't. I would be more inclined to go with a meat bird feed. The reason isn't the protein level but more importantly are the lysine, methionine and niacin levels.

The big difference in chicken feed and game bird feed are the lysine, methionine and niacin levels that are higher for game birds and turkeys.

Whatever you do, do not feed the poults layer feed. The high levels of calcium that laying hens need is harmful to males and young ones.

 

[R2elk]

are they able to eat crumbles when they're older?

They can eat crumbles when their older. Most people including me, feed pellets because there is less waste.