Feeding chicks and hens together

[I dig chicks]

I recently got some more chicks and they're ready to be out full time with my one remaining hen. So what is the best way to have feed out for both? My hen is no longer laying any more if that matters and she's over 2 yrs old. Chicks are about 8 weeks old.

 

[Folly's place]

I feed everyone Flock Raiser, an all-flock feed, with oyster shell on the side for the laying hens. Easy! Find an all-flock or chick feed that's fresh all the time at your feed stores, and use it. Mary

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

You also can feed everyone a non medicated starter grower. Keep a separate bowl of oyster shells for the calcium needs in case your hen starts to lay again.

 

[azygous]

The type of feed has been addressed by the others, but I have a different approach on the method of feeding.

When chicks and adults are fed together, a lot of the time the older birds will bully the youngsters when they're at the feeder. It seems to be one of the rules in chicken world - harass the pullets.

One thing you can do is to rig a temporary enclosure to keep the food and water in where the entrance to it is just large enough for the 8 week olds.

Another longer-lasting way to provide a safe feeding station for the young ones is to set up an old card table in the run with the chicks' food on top. This also provides a spot where they can relax from the stress of trying to fit into the pecking order.

 

[Folly's place]

It's important to have at least two, or more, feed and water stations, and areas where birds can avoid each other, so nobody is left out, or too picked on, or stressed. Mary