Fall/winter feed

[Titania207]

I know that this has been discussed but I cant find the answer I need so. I am looking for higher protein feed for fall (molting) into winter (Maine) for my 6 hens. I added turkey feed last season but they pick out and it isnt organic or non-GMO, which I prefer (most especially I do not want GMO).

This is what I feed them now (they also free range, eats bsf grubs, have various scraps):

Scratch & Peck Feeds Chicken and Duck Feed, 16%, Soy and Corn Free, Organic​

This is what I was thinking about for fall/winter?

Peterson Organic Feeds Chick Starter 20%, No Soy, Organic​

any thoughts? esp from those in cold climates. So looking forward to the cold!

 

[nuthatched]

Stick with the chick feed option

 

[Titania207]

Stick with the chick feed option

Thank you - do you mean the 20% starter ?

 

[nuthatched]

Thank you - do you mean the 20% starter ?

Yes, the other has too low of protein.

 

[thecatumbrella]

Kalmbach also has a 20% non-gmo all flock (Flock Maker) Both crumble and pellet. It's possible they offer it in organic as well, but I'm not positive. I get mine from Chewy.com.

 

[Titania207]

Kalmbach also has a 20% non-gmo all flock (Flock Maker) Both crumble and pellet. It's possible they offer it in organic as well, but I'm not positive. I get mine from Chewy.com.

do you feed this in the winter then? ( I see youre in NH)

 

[thecatumbrella]

do you feed this in the winter then? ( I see youre in NH)

I feed it all year. Chickens seem to hate having their food changed, and the extra protein gives support during molts, heat waves, and broody stints. I offer oyster shell on the side, and the girls are really good about taking what they need when they start laying.

It's also super convenient if you plan to add more chicks or roosters later. Everyone can eat the same feed.

 

[Titania207]

Oh ok, good to know. I guess I have been (stupidly) feeding them low protein food for their entire lives (3.5 years)... I will fix that asap. Appreciate the info!

 

[thecatumbrella]

Oh ok, good to know. I guess I have been (stupidly) feeding them low protein food for their entire lives (3.5 years)... I will fix that asap. Appreciate the info!

Eh, your chickens are fine. Mine dilute their diet with a steady stream of mulch, so I'm probably feeding closer to 14% in the end. Higher protein's a convenient way to try and prevent some problems, but if your birds are happy and healthy, feel free to keep doing what works!

 

[Altairsky]

Some grasses are extremely rich in protein, and mulch is rich in bugs, so don't underestimate your chickens!