Feeding a flock

[gardner621]

I have 10 new hens that are now starting to lay. My flock is now at 13 with the older hens.

I have been "flinging" scoops of feed into the run so it spreads out and keeps the pecking and competition down when they all run out of the coop for their breakfast.

I am now starting to blend my own feed and I don't know if i should start using several "pans" for the birds to eat out of, or keep with the flinging method.

Should i put my grit in with the food or in a separate bucket for them to use on their own?

Now that i am making my own mix of feed, should i put a pile of crushed oyster shells in the run for them to use on their own? Will they eat shells on their own or should I be mixing it in with the feed?

I am adding puppy kibble into my recipe to boost protein in this batch. What are some other ways to boost protein for future batches?

Thanks in advance for any help,
Gardner

 

[OreoH]

I think in the summer you can provide it in pans, so they don't have to run around and get hot. In the winter you can spread it out or fling it, which encourages movement. (My chicks are in the brooder), but I plan on having two small buckets for grit and oyster shell. Also, you have a very photogenic flock.