grower food + oyster shell, or laying pellets?

[Smithyard Farm]

Do they really "know" when to eat the oyster shell? I had it separate for awhile, but didn't look like they were eating much. I haven't refilled it once it was finished. How do they know to eat it?

 

[animallover505]

Do they really "know" when to eat the oyster shell? I had it separate for awhile, but didn't look like they were eating much. I haven't refilled it once it was finished. How do they know to eat it?

Their bodies tell them what they need and when.

 

[Hillschicks]

Yea, but if their body says hey, you need calcium... How do they know thats what that other dish is for?? And if the rooster or non laying ladies see the others eating something in my experience they want some too.... Suppose everyone is healthy and happy with how its been so ill just stick with whats worked for now

 

[Chris09]

Yea, but if their body says hey, you need calcium... How do they know thats what that other dish is for?? And if the rooster or non laying ladies see the others eating something in my experience they want some too.... Suppose everyone is healthy and happy with how its been so ill just stick with whats worked for now

Chickens are good at knowing when they need and don't need calcium.
When you first put the oyster shells (or other calcium souse) in there pen they will all try some but once they get the taste they will know if they need it or not.

Chris

 

[lablover]

Thanks everyone!!!

I was just worried that keeping them on grower would not give them all that they needed. I've given them oyster shells in a separate dish since they started laying, and everything seems fine. The shells are good and thick, and even rough textured at times.