guide to feed/#birds-in-flock??

[kimslack]

Is there a post that tells a newbie how much commercial chicken layer feed for heavy birds to give daily per their flock count? Since the weather has gotten colder and less bugs and stuff to forage now, they are eating more and wondering how much to dole out. Also, should I use an open trough or a weighted, round feeder platform that are commonly sold in feed stores?

I also give them some cracked corn, scratch grains, some greens and apples, forage cakes and other treats. Thanks. Kim

 

[Lollipop]

Quote:
Kim, I raise gamefowl and I can tell you that a 4# cock gets along just fine on 3oz of 14% protein food per day. I would say that a big laying hen at about 6# could do fine on 5-6oz of layer ration at 17-22% protein per day. Layer feeds are specifically formulated for proper nutrition. If you give them lots of treats, you are essentially diluting that nutritional base. They will thrive on layer feed alone, but additional greens are excellent. the other treats you mention detract from their balanced diet.

An open trough will work providing it is altered to keep them from scratching food out and wasting it. Good luck. I hope I answered your questions...........Pop

 

[Knock Kneed Hen]

I believe a flock should be offered free choice. You will always have the dominant birds eating their fill and the bottom of the pecking order getting what's left over. (Okay, I know that's not the question, but I'm just filling in between the lines).

Of course, it's good to know how much a bird requires when trying to determine what your budget can afford when thinking about building a flock. I didn't plan and now have a $40 a month food bill (150 lbs of feed a mo. for 19 birds).