how to feed 2 age groups different feed in same pen?

[Sonya9]

Are ya'll saying I don't need to use laying pellets? I have not opened either of these bags yet and can go exchange if needed to all flock? I'm getting a little confused. Which isn't hard for me these days!!

Correct. You do not need to use layer pellets. If you can exchange the bags for all-flock feed that is what I would do. If they don't have all-flock then starter or even game bird feed works.

Not sure regarding medicated feed for 6 week olds. I don't use medicated feed, have they been outside for a while? If so I would go with non-medicated, but if they just started pecking at soil then maybe medicated is better as they may just be coming in contact with the bacteria.

 

[The Happster]

@GC-Raptor, care to join us?

I don't use medicated feed.

 

[Flame80]

What % protein should I shoot for?

 

[The Happster]

I believe 18% is a good amount.

 

[wyochick10]

So I went to the Lone Star feed website and it appears they don’t have just an “all flock” feed that I could see. The chick starter had 20% protein which is the same as Purina Flock Raiser that is an “all Flock” feed that I use. The Lone Star Grower has 18% protein. Either one of these would work for all your pullets. Just with a dish of oyster shell on the side.

 

[drinkoj]

What % protein should I shoot for?

18% minimum , 20% best.

 

[drinkoj]

So I went to the Lone Star feed website and it appears they don’t have just an “all flock” feed that I could see. The chick starter had 20% protein which is the same as Purina Flock Raiser that is an “all Flock” feed that I use. The Lone Star Grower has 18% protein. Either one of these would work for all your pullets. Just with a dish of oyster shell on the side.

+2

 

[Flame80]

Ok I'm going to stay with my 18% grower that I'm already feeding the 14 week olds. I called my feedstore and no problem exchanging. So lastly, do I want shell or grit? and I'm on my way out the door!

 

[drinkoj]

Ok I'm going to stay with my 18% grower that I'm already feeding the 14 week olds. I called my feedstore and no problem exchanging. So lastly, do I want shell or grit? and I'm on my way out the door!

Quick answer, get a bag of both.
Put the grit out now and then put out the oyster shell in about 3 to 4 weeks.

Oyster shell is for when they are about to OR are laying eggs, so the egg shells are thicker.

Grit helps them "chew" veggies and treats, because they have no teeth.

 

[wyochick10]

You will need both. The oyster shell is for calcium and the grit is for the crop and digestion of the food. If the free range they can get enough grit on their own usually but if not and you feed treats or scratch they will need it also.