Just got my first chickens in the fall. They have done well through the winter. All hens. Question. Do you feed laying pellets all year when they are not laying? They don't seem to like them real well and many are left over the next day I've noticed. Is is ok to do scratch and scraps through the winter?
Welcome to BYC. Providing a balanced ration year round is a good idea. Day length is increasing, and they will very likely start laying soon so I would keep them on a laying ration. Only feed as much as they will clean up by evening. Scratch feed or scraps no more than 10% of their diet is generally accepted as okay.
During long periods of NOT laying, I think they could get by on regular chicken feed with a container of crushed oyster shell on the side. If they feel they need extra calcium they can eat it free choice. Too many treats like scratch etc. just spoil them like kids with candy. They will really turn up their nose at food that is best for them. The treats also just make them fat and not much else. Once they begin laying go back to layer - maybe if you dampen it a bit they will find it more palatable. You could also post your question at "Chicken behaviors and egglaying," thread
As the other greeters have said, keep treats to a minimum and when you do give them treats, make it something that is good for them. This chart might be helpful: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/chicken-treat-chart-the-best-treats-for-backyard-chickens Thanks for joining us!
Hello! Welcome to BYC and the coop! There's a lot of great peeps here! Feel free to ask lots of questions. But most of all, make yourself at home. I'm so glad you decided to joined the BYC family. I look forward to seeing you around BYC.
