Feeders

[jam29]

Hello! New chicken momma here! I have a few questions regarding feeding my chickens. My first question is what should I feed them in? One of those little red chick feeders with holes? A large feeder, similar to how a waterer works? The ground? I'm just not sure. My second question is how should I feed them oyster shell, once they start laying? I've heard it has to be separate from their regular feed, so how should I go about this? Once again, a chick feeder? large one? the ground?
Let me know your opinions!
Thanks so much!

 

[Three Little Bunnies]

I use an adjustable metal hanging feeder. It looks like this.

I recommend the feeders that look like waterers because the tray feeders are often tipped over by older birds. I put my hanging feeder on a brick in the run so the chickens can't poop in it as easily. Try to put the feeder at about the level of the birds' backs. If you put feed on the ground, it is likely that it will be pooped on and wasted, or buried by dust.

As for oyster shell, I just sprinkle it in the chickens' run and add some more when I can't see any on the ground. Start feeding oyster shell after the girls lay their first egg. If you put the oyster shell separate from the feed, they should only eat what they need. DO NOT GIVE OYSTER SHELL TO NON-LAYING CHICKS!! You could put the oyster shell in a bowl or separate small feeder.

I hope this helps! Good luck!

 

[GC-Raptor]

For Chicks in a brooder, I use the Chick feeder. I also use the Chick waterer. My 1 week olds today.

My Hens feeder and waterer.

Oyster Shells and Poultry Grit. 3/32 inch holes drilled in bottom to drain moisture.

I offer Poultry Grit after 7 weeks old, and Oyster Shells after 16 weeks old. GC