GRIT?? do I need to give it?

[TNSMITH]

So I have had my chickens for about 2 months now, I have 6 and so far we are enjoying it and actually getting 3 eggs a day. Some of the chickens haven't matured yet . Though it should be soon. It's kinda like watching water boil however.

Anyway, I know that birds need grit to digest their food. I have read that if you are feeding them a commerical layer feed that grit is not necessary, however, I am also feeding them scraps including veggies, fruit and I have just purchased some scratch.

I am sure that with the scratch I will need grit, the question I have is how often do I need to give them the grit?

 

[Wyandottes7]

Do your chickens have access to a run or chicken yard that has dirt and small rocks in it? If so, they likely are getting enough grit for themselves. However, if you keep them in an area that is mostly grass, or mostly dirt, they may not be getting enough grit. It would probably be a good idea to get grit, especially because you will be feeding them scratch.

 

[TNSMITH]

They are in a pen with grass, I use a "portable" coop. So is there a specific amount and a interval that I should be giving it to them?

 

[Den in Penn]

No interval. Grit can wear at different rates. I feel it is best that they can choose when to take it. Offer it in a dish off to the side maybe attach it to a leg of the pen so its always there.