Conflicting opinions on feeding integrated flock

[mstrawn3]

Quote:
There is nothing in layer pellets that will "force" a hen to lay. The amount of each ingredient is changed to compensate for loss of nutrients due to egg production. The maturity level of the bird determines when they are ready to lay. I would suggest flock raiser with free choice on the oyster shells.

 

[Erica]

I agree with others, you got good advice from the feed store.

But to add to the thread, the reason younger birds can't be fed too much calcium is that it can interfere with their ability to absorb calcium later on (so they can go on to lay soft eggs). Apparently the calcium storage system has a limit, and after that's reached the absorption system begins to be compromised permanently.

However birds from about 14-16 weeks onwards (depending on breed) want more calcium in preparation for laying, and will store up what you feed.

The reason why this sounds unnatural is that humans have bred the high volume layers to lay far more than they were meant to in the wild, so for mature layers their eggshell calcium needs are massive.

I imagine for wild-based chickens the chicks tend to avoid eating shells but the mothers do eat them... With limited laying there wouldn't be such a huge difference in calcium needs.

Hope this helps with understanding the logic behind the feed store's advice.

regards,
Erica

 

[pattgal]

Quote:
Wow thanks. Is it ok to mix layer pellets with grower then or just give them all grower with oyster shells on the side?
I guess we see how it goes for my 3 chicks from December.

I hope I haven't damaged them.