Chickens and grit

[All about the EGG]

Do chickens know they need grit? Will they actively search for it? I read an article about the author watching his chicken sample grit (stones), until it found some that was the right size. This correct?

 

[Chirpy]

Yes, they know they need grit and will find the right size when in an outside run or free ranging. If the chickens don't have access to dirt/ground then you need to supply them with grit. You can buy it from feed stores or the big stores like Big R or Tractor Supply.

They're pretty amazing huh?

 

[All about the EGG]

Thanks. I read that and could not believe it.

 

[5peeps]

I have 5 chicks at what point do you start giving them grit ?

I read when they start to lay eggs is this correct ?

Thanks

 

[eggzettera]

Quote:
They need grit to digest their food - so they always need grit - the "starter feed" that they start with has enough grit in it for the starter, so if any additional treats are given grit should be provided to aid in the digestion of the treat. The grit helps grind the food so that they do NOT get an impacted crop.

You need to provide free access to oyster shell when they start laying as they will need the extra calcium to make the eggs with.

 

[All about the EGG]

LOL! I put a bowl of sand in the brooder, and they started chowing on it. It looked like they were eating it! I understand some sprinkle it in food, and keep a bowl around.

 

[5peeps]

Quote:
They need grit to digest their food - so they always need grit - the "starter feed" that they start with has enough grit in it for the starter, so if any additional treats are given grit should be provided to aid in the digestion of the treat. The grit helps grind the food so that they do NOT get an impacted crop.

You need to provide free access to oyster shell when they start laying as they will need the extra calcium to make the eggs with.

When you say oyster shell what do you mean ( I know what they are ) but do you give them the whole shell or do you break them up and how big if so ? Also is there something else you can use ?

Thanks

 

[kodiakchicken]

You can buy crushed oyster shell at the feed store. Use that since it's probably been processed properly for the chickens. I wouldn't use oyster shell from store bought oysters.

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Quote:
Dont use oyster shells as grit. Oyster shells should only be given to hens that are laying eggs. Use regular chick grit.

 

[tigger65]

just for the info,,, the crushed oyster shell that is sold in feed store is the exact same thing as the whole unshucked shells bought at the fish mkt just washed then crushed