Feeding layer feed to my pullets

[UrbanEnthusiast]

Back in mid-June I added two pullets, hatched mid-April, to our flock of three laying hens, who were all getting layer feed. I was told at the feed store that the pullets would need extra protein. I asked if I could simply give the young ones some mealworms each day and they said that was fine. Now I read here that it's not safe to safe to give pullets layer feed because of the excess calcium. I had no idea. I hope my two little babies are OK.

The good news is that the pullets are Leghorns, so they are excellent foragers, and ours free-range from dawn till dusk. Between it being summer and their being at the bottom of the pecking order, they've probably been relying more on foraging than feed.

 

[Judy]

At around 8 weeks they were probably old enough to tolerate the calcium in layer feed, even without foraging. They certainly are now. I've never read of a precise dividing line, but apparently the greatest danger is to very young chicks.

You've described a good point, though: In many cases, what feed store employees tell you is not exactly the best information. They often have no real training in chicken care. I feel BYC is a much better source!