Feed questions

[chalynm]

We're still in the planning stages (no chickens yet), and I'm trying to get an idea of how much feed is going to run us. I'd like to go organic if possible, which means we'd have to order feed. (I don't think anybody around here even knows what organic means...) I've read that we should plan for 1 lb/10 chicks/day for the first month. Does this sound about right?

After that, I can't find any estimates on average food consumption after the first month. We'll most likely get black australorps; if not them, then another dual-purpose breed in the 4-5 eggs/wk range. 8-10 birds. Tube feeders to reduce waste. No supplements until we get the hang of things. Any thoughts on what we should expect?

Also, what's the difference between pellets and mash? Is it really just a matter of preference?

Thanks!

 

[Camelot Farms]

I can answer the pellet/mash difference

I like pellets better...less waste. If one knocks a piece out, someone else will eat it.

I have no idea how much mine eat. If I did, I would probably shoot myself in the foot! lol

 

[briteday]

I think pellets reduce waste. And the proper feeder is a good thing too, something they can't poop in or swish their beak around to spill out feed.

How much feed? I have about 20 birds (all standard breeds except for two little silkies) and a 50# bag of feed usually lasts for about 4-5 weeks in the winter and 6+ weeks in the summer. In the summer they have more garden/weed scraps and plenty of yummy bugs in their run to feast on in addition to the layer pellets.