Grit Addiction

[Kacey Elle]

Okay. I know that "research" can often be wrong when dealing with real life. But it seems like the comments I found on BYC support my research regarding grit. So what's wrong with my flock???

I use an automatic PVC feeder for oyster shells, layer crumble, and grit. But my girls seem to think grit is ice cream. From what I've read, chickens aren't supposed to need much grit. Mine have gone through about five pounds since June/July. Five pounds! Do I keep offering it free choice? Do I stop providing it for a time and then offer it again? Explanations, advice, and opinions regarding this grit feast are solicited.

Additional info:
-The flock does not free-range but has constant access to a secure run (suburban area with predators).
-The run floor is deep litter over dirt but they probably can't pick up pebbles/grit sources consistently.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Keep it free choice. Are all the mentioned item, grit, feed, and oyster shells in separate feeders or combined? They could be just spooning it out.

 

[Kacey Elle]

Thanks for the prompt reply!

They are separate feeders. They're definitely ingesting it. There's nothing in the area that indicates spillage.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Chickens will consume grit as needed so it should always be available. We don't actually offer purchased grit, we give ours small gravel that we use in our shed for a floor base, by spring the chickens have removed all the larger bits so the top few inches is just dust. They do seem to consume a lot at times, especially if they have no access to it outside. 5 pounds isn't that much in 6 months or so.

 

[jthornton]

I use an automatic PVC feeder for oyster shells, layer crumble, and grit.

Why are you feeding layer and oyster shells? AFAIK layer contains the calcium needed for egg production and oyster shells is only needed when feeding all flock.

JT

 

[lazy gardener]

Agreed, they are treating it like candy b/c they need it. Good reminder for me to put out some more. Any time I put out a fresh bowl full, they tackle it.

 

[chickens really]

They could be consuming the grit because they are lacking in minerals?..Maybe the layer feed is not nutritional enough?
I feed grower all the time with oyster shell on the side.

 

[rjohns39]

What type of grit are you providing? Size and material?

 

[Kacey Elle]

Chickens will consume grit as needed so it should always be available. We don't actually offer purchased grit, we give ours small gravel that we use in our shed for a floor base, by spring the chickens have removed all the larger bits so the top few inches is just dust. They do seem to consume a lot at times, especially if they have no access to it outside. 5 pounds isn't that much in 6 months or so.

-Thanks for explaining. When I bought the grit, the store owner said it would be enough to last a year or so. When it didn't, I got a little worried...

Why are you feeding layer and oyster shells? AFAIK layer contains the calcium needed for egg production and oyster shells is only needed when feeding all flock.

JT

-I thought you were always supposed to offer oyster shells free choice. It's my first year (well, half a year) of having chickens but that is what the research I did "told me" to do....
-What is AFAIK?

Agreed, they are treating it like candy b/c they need it. Good reminder for me to put out some more. Any time I put out a fresh bowl full, they tackle it.

-Thanks for the reply! I thought my chickens were abnormal but it looks like this is an okay addiction!

They could be consuming the grit because they are lacking in minerals?..Maybe the layer feed is not nutritional enough?
I feed grower all the time with oyster shell on the side.

-How would I be able to tell the feed doesn't have enough nutrition? I'm feeding organic layer feed from my local farm store; my chickens seem to be healthy and active. I have no health concerns for them other than what I perceived as their odd obsession with grit.

What type of grit are you providing? Size and material?

-I honestly didn't know there were different types. I just scoop it out of the bin marked "grit" at the feed store....It's a mix of different sizes and other than saying the material is rock-like, I couldn't tell you.

 

[Gramma Chick]

If you are feeding layer you shouldnt need Oyster shell.
Chickens do need grit to help digest their food
how many chickens do you have ?