Feeding chicks when they're in with hens

[huntersmoon]

I have some six-week old chicks that I've integrated in with my hens from three weeks on, using the method described here of creating a space the hens can't get into but with a small opening the chicks can venture out safely. Everything is going beautifully.

I have the hen food coming through the wall in two PVC pipes, but the chicks are getting tall enough to be able to reach it.

What do you do about feed when the babies are in with the hens? I know we don't want the chicks getting layer feed. Should I just put the chick feed in all of the feeders? (the hens can't get to the chick feed, this is just about preventing the chicks from getting the hen feed.)

Thanks
Shannon

 

[ackie]

I have some six-week old chicks that I've integrated in with my hens from three weeks on, using the method described here of creating a space the hens can't get into but with a small opening the chicks can venture out safely. Everything is going beautifully.

I have the hen food coming through the wall in two PVC pipes, but the chicks are getting tall enough to be able to reach it.

What do you do about feed when the babies are in with the hens? I know we don't want the chicks getting layer feed. Should I just put the chick feed in all of the feeders? (the hens can't get to the chick feed, this is just about preventing the chicks from getting the hen feed.)

Thanks
Shannon

When I have moms with babies, I only feed chick feed, but its only the one hen thats eating it and shes not laying anyway. Not sure what to do when theres other hens involved.

 

[HappyClucker7]

Just put chick feed in all the feeders and give oyster shells to the laying hens.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Just put chick feed in all the feeders and give oyster shells to the laying hens.

This.

If you look at the analysis on the label the only significant difference in Layer and other feeds is Calcium. Protein will vary between feeds but that doesn't matter to this. Choose whatever protein yo are happy with. Offer oyster shell free choice, not mixed in with the feed. The hens that need it for egg shells typically know they need it and eat enough. The chicks might eat a bite or two of oyster shell but won't eat enough to harm themselves.

Do not mix oyster shell with the feed, that defeats the purpose.

 

[mcdze]

well trying to go 'automated' makes it difficult .. personally i wouldnt worry about who eats what if its quality feed, but very young birds need the finer chick start crumbles .. im not wasting it on mature birds thats an expensive bag there lol .. that can go in their safe space ...

 

[huntersmoon]

Thanks for the advice!