Feed help please

[Klongeway]

I have a flock of all different ages oldest 5 months next week and some as young as 12 weeks my older ones are at age of being able starting layers feed but the rest are not how do I go about feeding them also I have 2 roosters in the mix I need something safe for them as well. I have read that roosters can’t have layers feed and they are all in the same enclosure. Also get limited time to free range in the evenings for a couple hours.

 

[MommyGirl]

You can feed an all flock feed to all! And have oyster shells on the side

 

[Sally PB]

You can feed an all flock feed to all! And have oyster shells on the side

This is exactly what I do. The feed I get is called "flock maker," but all flock or flock raiser are pretty much the same thing.

I have a dish of oyster shell and another dish of crushed egg shell out for the ones who need it.

 

[EddieSalita]

In Australia, many places don't have an all flock as such. I've used a pullet crumble (not a chick starter) in the past with sea shell grit on the side and maybe some lucerne/alfalfa chaff for the layers, with a scratch grain for entertainment. So I think that's another viable option for chicken based flocks.

Millet is also good for chooks. While not high in protein, it's great for nutrients, cheap, and viable for the younger birds with smaller beaks and developing crops.There is plenty of research out there on its use in poultry. Up to 50% of diet with no adverse effects.

 

[orelsi]

Layer feed is not a problem for roosters except in certain types heavy on calcium. Most layer feed is fine. The roosters will pick and choose. I find having a bowl of grain and a bowl of corn next to the layer feed works the best. Both the hens and the roosters will choose what to eat, my roosters love to pig out on corn in the evening, it gives them full bellies for the night. Corn is also excellent in cold weather/winter since it is high in energy.

Layer feed + grain + corn will ensure a healthy and happy flock guaranteed.

You can add calcium to the feed once a week for the hens. You can mix it in with water, they love that.

 

[Brooks_]

Layer feed is not a problem for roosters except in certain types heavy on calcium

All layer feed is has too much calcium for any chicken not actively laying.

Layer feed + grain + corn will ensure a healthy and happy flock guaranteed

The grain and corn will dilute the nutrients in layer feed. The nutrient profile in layer is already bare minimum (most brands).

 

[Klongeway]

Layer feed is not a problem for roosters except in certain types heavy on calcium. Most layer feed is fine. The roosters will pick and choose. I find having a bowl of grain and a bowl of corn next to the layer feed works the best. Both the hens and the roosters will choose what to eat, my roosters love to pig out on corn in the evening, it gives them full bellies for the night. Corn is also excellent in cold weather/winter since it is high in energy.

Layer feed + grain + corn will ensure a healthy and happy flock guaranteed.

You can add calcium to the feed once a week for the hens. You can mix it in with water, they love that.

Thank you for the help I appreciate it.