Feeding mixed ages

[chickenchok]

I have 8 14 week old pullets and 6 laying hens. They have been integrated in the same coop/run now for a few weeks and seem to be doing fine. However, the big hens keep chowing on the pullets' Grower/Finisher feed and barely eat their Layer feed. The pullets often eat the layer feed instead. Should I stop feeding the Grower/Finisher or could that cause any growth problems? Can I just feed them all the layer feed at this point? I'm also concerned that the hens won't get enough calcium, otherwise and might get too fat!

Thank you, Oh Wise Chicken Keeping Friends!

 

[Shannon's Chix]

I have 4 10 week olds and 2 layers and the advice I got was to give them all grower (or starter/grower) and have oyster shell available. I also give my layers yogurt every day. Hope this helps.

 

[GardeNerd]

I believe most sources recommend, if you have mixed ages like yours, to use a product like "Flock Raiser." If you don't have access to it or a similar product from a different manufacturer, give them just the grower type feed and oyster shell on the side (free choice), like ConservaChick says she does.

Too much calcium in the layer feed is not ideal for the younger pullets. If they get it free choice it is less of an issue. I think it can effect their kidneys if they aren't laying yet.