Is 16 weeks too early to introduce layer feed?

[PurpleGizmo]

Hi there,

My four hens will be 16 weeks old this Wednesday and I'm down to the last few pounds of grower feed. Can I start mixing in layer feed now or should I wait and buy another bag of grower feed?

Thanks!

 

[bargain]

you start the layer feed at 16 weks.

 

[fordmommy]

I had ALOT of people tell me in this forum to keep them on grower until they lay. I had them on the layer and went back.

 

[speckledhen]

It's not ideal, but with your situation, you could certainly start them on layer a tad early. I've done it when the arrangements with my birds made it a necessity, or at least made things a whole lot easier (lots of mixed ages). When all is said and done, it won't make alot of difference since they are this close to laying age. The best thing to do is keep them on grower or starter/grower till they begin laying, but in the scheme of things, no big deal.

 

[daryl]

sounds right to me thats what i'm going to do..I'm on week 12

 

[KMHunter]

The vet I use for my pullets, told me to start them on layer at about 15-16 wks. To mix in the layer feed 1/2 & 1/2 until you finish the grower or until 18 wks. Whichever comes first. He has raised chickens for over 20 yrs and used to develope organic chicken feed for some company (forget the name). So I trust his opinion. Hope this helps.