free choice or limited

[blevinsbunch]

I recently purchased my first flock. They are all about 6 weeks old and are healthy and doing great. At first, I was feeding them at free choice, but noticed that they are eating all of the time. So, I started feeding them smaller amounts 3xdaily (morning, noon, and dusk). They seem to be doing fine with this method and are not pecking each other, which is my fear of feeding them this way. I have heard both sides, some say let them eat all they want and some say limit their feed. Which is the more prefered way?

 

[centrarchid]

Watch their weight. If they are free-range, then they can often compensate by foraging more and keep growing. If confined then weight and condition are best indicators as to whether they are getting enough to eat.

 

[Cindy in PA]

They are 6 weeks old, all they do is eat. I don't understand why everyone is so ready to restrict feed & feed "treats" to young chickens. No offense meant, but little chicks need food to grow & eat like crazy through 18-20 weeks. It is not the same as restricting older birds.

 

[1cityslicker]

Let them eat...they're growing! I can understand restricting treats but feed?