How much to feed?

[shannonb]

I feed a 16% layer feed from my store....I keep two very large feed pans with a brick in each full. Is that too much feed? I have 7 hens and 1 rooster....I seem to be going through an awful lot of feed. A 50# bag every 3 weeks. Am I over feeding? They also get treats, yogurt, bananas, strawberries and bread once a day. But the treats just started a day or two ago....I didn't know chickens could get people food, duh!

 

[KellyHM]

They should have access to fresh food and water at all times. 50 lbs in 3 weeks is not unreasonable. However, if it's in a pan and they're spilling it or scratching it out you may want to get a feeder to reduce waste.

 

[shannonb]

Thank you, Kelly.

I know this is silly, but the first feeder I got was so tiny.....and they tipped it. It was a waste of time, what other kind of feeders are there? Do you have a link to some place I can look at other kinds of feeders...big ones?

They have access to fresh clean water at all time

I'm also looking into netting for over the top of the outside run......hearing all of these stories of hawks and coons are scaring me, although Ive not had a problem so far. (Knocks on wood)

 

[Judy]

There should be a farm supply store around you that will sell chicken feed, feeders and waterers, and other supplies.

http://www.yellowpages.com/Adel-IA/Farm-Supplies