feeding mixed ages

[trailhound]

I seem to have acquired several batches of chicks this spring/summer, so I have had them all separated by age and am working to consolidate as possible, I am down to three groups now. I have three pullets that are about 2 months old and I would like to put them in with my l5 aying hens. I think they are big enough and there is enough space in the coop that they could hold their own, pecking order wise, but can't figure out the food issue. I feed the laying hens Purina Layena, and the younger pullets Start and Grow. Can I possibly just put both kinds of food in the coop and let them pick what they need? I want everyone to get what they need, but am anxious to only have to take care of one coop instead of three, and the younger hens will be happier in the larger space.

Thanks!
Andrea

 

[keljonma]

Unless they are separated, the pullets will be eating the layer feed. At 2 months of age, they are still too young for that much calcium.

You could feed Purina SunFresh Flockraiser, but then your laying hens won't get enough calcium, unless you supplement their diet.

 

[trailhound]

Would free choice oyster shells add enough calcium for the layers and keep everyone where they need to be?
Thanks!
Andrea

 

[keljonma]

It may work. Just keep an eye on your laying flock's eggs to check for any changes in the hardness of their egg shell. If they don't get enough calcium, I've read that they leach it from their bones.

 

[dogzrule5]

I'm at the same point. I have three adult laying hens, three pullets about 3 1/2 months old and another three about 3 months old.

 

[wegotchickens]

I'm in the same boat as well. The hens kept stealing the young'uns Start & Grow whenever both pens were open for free-range time. So now that they're together I've got everyone eating the S&G. I'm giving the hens egg shells in 'their' treat pan plus offering the oyster shell to them.