Feeding question...how much pellets is to little ?

[AthenaT]

OK guys quick newbie question. Background When I got my "Krewe" they were very rangy and under weight. I spoil my girls with lots of scraps, treats and keep layers pellets, fresh water and scratch down during the day. I have 7 hens and 1 pullet all laying now and average 6 eggs a day . They free range my backyard all day.They are now only eating about a quart of layers pellet and a pint of scratch a day between them. Is this enough or should I decrease the treats ?

 

[Frankie Ruiz]

Should be 2 cups of pellets and 1 cup of water per bird per day

 

[AthenaT]

guess I'd better cut down on the treats...they are down to less than a cup a day each including the scratch.....they do have nice full crops at night and are gaining weight and laying well

 

[Frankie Ruiz]

Well if they're free ranging they will be eating less then 2 cups a day, that number is for caged birds I believe. But treats shouldn't be supplemented for feed according to the feed companies. Your girls sound really healthy so I wouldn't stress it but definitely give them some more pellets and cut down on the treats a bit.

 

[Bigwig]

I would leave water available all day.

 

[AthenaT]

yes water is available 24/7.until last week I was even refilling pellets in the coop at night...bit of a newbie as you can tell