How much scratch?

[nikischicks]

I have 13 chickens, and its starting to get cold here. How much scratch should I give them in the evening? Meaning like measurement wise.

 

[monathequeen]

you don't have to measure. I Give them a couple of handfulls mixed in w/ the regular food....or throw a couple of handfulls on the ground so they can search for it...hence.."scratch-grain"

I have 19 chicks and ducks and mix scratch in with the reg. food...year round.
My kids are healthy and happy. they will only eat what they want...you cannot over feed them however, you don't want to give them "ONLY" scratch...they need the protein from the reg. food. hope this helps.

 

[RioLindoAz]

As long as everyone gets some. It becomes a game after a while, so just make sure everybody gets their fill.

 

[digitS']

The poultry science people usually recommend scratch at no more than 15% of the birds diets or what they can clean-up in 20 minutes. Oregon State University

Some, make it real simple, "Do not mix scratch grain with a complete commercial ration." University of Georgia

Steve

 

[A.T. Hagan]

About half a handful per bird is plenty. If it's really cold you might split that into morning and evening feedings. It'll keep them busier and warmer.

If you're feeding a higher protein ration than the usual 15-16% layer ration you can give them more.

.....Alan.

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

that's what I go with a handful per bird, they tend to leave any more than that.