do i need oyster shells

[chickenmama109]

hello i have 11 hens they are 4 months old when i put them on layer feed do i need oyster shells and if so how do i give it to them

 

[GC-Raptor]

If you offer them treats. Offering them oyster shell is good insurance, to make sure they get enough calcium. I feed layers feed and offer oyster shell and Granite Grit. Each one separately.
I offer them in 1.3 quart pails. . GC

 

[PD-Riverman]

Opinions, Opinions. To start I would not start Layer until I see the first eggs. Just for Info---At 4 months old their Tittle is "pullets". If they are laying and you are feeding them a Commercial layer feed they will probably Not need any oyster shells. I only give mine some extra if their shells start getting soft which is a rare thing.

 

[chickenmama109]

thanks but what are oyster shells for

 

[barred2rock]

thanks but what are oyster shells for

A calcium supplement.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Oyster shell is one i put in the insurance category....better to have and not need than need and not have. The cost is so minimal that too me it's worth it to me to make available to the birds. Layer *shouild* have sufficient calcium in out, but different birds' bodies have different needs and of one feels she needs extras calcium it is there for the taking in a dish of oyster shell... so you are proactive rather than reactively adding out if isdues arise.

 

[PD-Riverman]

thanks but what are oyster shells for

They are Ground up small enough the chickens can eat them---not whole shells.

 

[chickenmama109]

thank you ever one

how much do i give to them

 

[meetthebubus]

They eat at will only so a bowl left for them will last a long while

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

thank you ever one

how much do i give to them

I just leave a container available free choice.... they take whay they need and I refill as needed. I have a side by side, wall mounted, feeder meant for goats...