Integrating pullets into flock and feeding

[MCArt20]

I am in the process of slowly integrating two pullets into my flock, (of two). Once they are, I was told pullets should not eat layer feed until they are laying. So how do I keep them from eating the layer feed, once they are all living together? Thanks!
Mary

 

[justoldbobo2]

If they are close to laying age I wouldn't worry about it. I'd be more worried about pecking order. Leave them in a cage close to other hens for few days before adding them into coop. So they can see and hear each other then add them in the evening before roosting time.

 

[MCArt20]

Thanks! One is 14 weeks and the other @12 weeks, but I guess they could also all eat the chicks food with shells on the side.... yes the integration is very slow- the pullets are blocked off in the run under the coop, and then I swap them out so they have time outside and the big girls go in. We are on about day 7, so I was going to let them out together for about 10 minutes today, and if ok 15 tomorrow, etc. I figure it's about a two week process at least....

 

[IdyllwildAcres]

Some folks feed a flock raiser/ all flock feed with a higher protein to everyone and put oyster shell on the side for calcium, many say that 16% layer feed is barely enough protein and once you add some treats they may not be getting enough... IDK, I am not getting my chicks for another 46 days but who's counting...

Good luck

Gary

Must. Finish. Coop.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Thanks! One is 14 weeks and the other @12 weeks, but I guess they could also all eat the chicks food with shells on the side.... yes the integration is very slow- the pullets are blocked off in the run under the coop, and then I swap them out so they have time outside and the big girls go in. We are on about day 7, so I was going to let them out together for about 10 minutes today, and if ok 15 tomorrow, etc. I figure it's about a two week process at least....

That would be the better option. 14 weeks and especially 12 weeks is too young for a strict diet of layer feed.