Do I really need grit?

[ThinkingChickens]

While at the feed store picking up layer feed and chick starter I inquired about some grit. The guy laughed at me and told me that my chickens, who free range most of the day, would find their own rocks and such and that grit was not necessary. Really? I hear so many folks talking about it on here and making grit feeders out of PVC. Is this only for chickens who are confined? Soon my girls will have a walk in run and will spend more time inside the run. Will I then want to purchase grit? Hate it when feed shop employees make me feel like an idiot. LOL

 

[Merryment]

Grit's not so expensive. I put up a little bunny feeder with a screened bottom on the side of their run. It keeps it clean, and rain drains off. If they need it, they eat it. If they don't, they won't. Our girls sometimes hit it hard, other times not. You sure don't want an impacted crop. It's not fun to mess with.

 

[moetrout]

Mine free range everyday, but I still offer it to them. They can "probably" do without it if they are free range. Grit is cheap so I always keep some out and ya know what, that dish gets emptied from time to time. That alone should tell you something.

 

[L*A*G*]

i try to keep a small supply separate from other feed for my birds in pens. that's what i recommend

 

[L*A*G*]

L*A*G* :

i try to keep a small supply separate from other feed for my birds in pens. that's what i recommend

same with oyster shell​

 

[kuntrygirl]

I offer it from time to time but it is not offered on a daily basis. My chickens free range and they find their own grit. The reason that I know is because I do daily poop check and I see itty bitty tiny pebbles and rocks in their poop, so they are getting their grit when they free range. They free range all day every day.

 

[ThinkingChickens]

I agree about having it out there and I know it to be inexpensive. What is funny is he didn't want to sell me any. In fact, the only kind they had was the overpriced stuff they sell for parakeets and canaries. I'm going to go to the larger feed store in town when I get a chance and I'll pick some up. I do offer oyster shell. I definitely don't want an impacted crop and since we have such a small flock I'm trying hard to give them everything they'd need or want! Ugh, makes me mad at this guy though.