Help me I'm new at this.

[blackwpk]

I will be getting my first 4wk old hens in a month and need to know the best feed for them, for how long, and when to start their laying feed. I appreciate any and all help!

 

[lightchick]

Welcome to BYC! I use Nature Wise chick starter/grower.

 

[arkansas55]

hello

,i don't have baby chicken's just pullet's but there is great advice and information here for every stage of development!

 

[blackwpk]

Yes, mine will be RIR's - 4 of them. I want to be able to be ready for the 'girls'' arrival. How long do I keep them on chick feed? Is it until 16wks? Is it at 16wks that they will start laying? I'm hungry for info from anyone who will give it to me. I want to do my girls right from the beginning. The coop is almost finished. They will have shade, a nice place to run, nice nesting materials, they will pretty much be spoiled rotten, I just need to know this info. Thank you to anyone who is willing to spend the time!

 

[blackwpk]

Awesome! I appreciate the help!!

 

[lightchick]

I'd feed chick starter until they lay an egg. Most chickens do not start until 20 weeks. If your worried about them not getting enough calcium then I'd start offering oyster shell grit once they are 16 weeks. My chickens are 16 weeks at the moment and I'm still feeding chick starter, but now I'm giving them oyster shell grit too.

 

[blackwpk]

Thank you SO much for this information, I greatly appreciate it!! You have been most helpful!!

 

[arkansas55]

good advice from lightchick,well done,i bought the crushed calsium today,sound's like your an addict too already!

 

[blackwpk]

Absolutely!! LOL! I can't wait to receive my girls soon! I am so excited!!!

 

[arkansas55]

wohooooooooooooooooo,i hear a chicken addict,lol