Feeding hens and roos

[farmkat55]

Well, mine are still young and have not started laying yet but I wonder about feeding the girls once they are laying age if I have roos, too? I had a drake and hen earlier this year...I believe I was told to just feed the all flock and provide oyster shell so she could get it when she wanted. They were fine and she laid nice, big, hard-shelled eggs. Is it the same with chickens? I have 6 pullets and ended up with two surprise roos. Probably will have to part with the roos though in the near future.

Kathy

 

[sawilliams]

Yep, you got it

 

[ChickNanny13]

2x

 

[lazy gardener]

While that's the standard answer, not everyone marches to the same drummer. I put my whole flock on layer b/c it's easier on my budget. I ferment that feed, which actually increases the protein content of the feed, as well as increasing the bioavailability of the nutrients in the feed. So, I get even more bang for my $. I'm not concerned about Ca++ with roos or non laying hens b/c I'm faced with culling my roo from the flock while he appears to be at the prime of his life (still a very busy boy and will be 4 years old this coming spring) in order to bring in new blood and ensure good fertility. It depends on your goals. If your chickens are pets, and money is not tight, do the MF with OS on the side. If you have budget constraints, you can use layer.