Is the chick starter feed a problem for mature hens?

[chickadee2]

Our mature chickens are loving the chick starter and the increased protein has possible been the reason for the increase in eggs. Hopefully the chick starter will not be a problem for them. I have scattered the oyster shell calcium supplement in the coop to try to help compensate. The layer crumbles are still there, but ignored. any suggestions?

 

[AllynTal]

Our mature chickens are loving the chick starter and the increased protein has possible been the reason for the increase in eggs. Hopefully the chick starter will not be a problem for them. I have scattered the oyster shell calcium supplement in the coop to try to help compensate. The layer crumbles are still there, but ignored. any suggestions?

It's been my experience that it's just fine feeding chick starter to the hens as long as they have access to oyster shell. The extra protein is good and they'll peck at the oyster shell if/when they want the extra calcium.

What do you mean, you "scattered" the oyster shell? It's in a feeder available for them if they want it, yes?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

The higher protein can boost egg production and for a while isn't a big problem. I usually feed something like that when hens are molting to help them build feathers.
Excess protein has to be processed by the liver and can end up in the bedding as ammonia.
The oyster shell has to be in a separate container. If it gets spilled on the ground or in bedding, my chickens tend to ignore it.
I assume you have chicks living with hens as the reason for starter being there. Can the chicks access the layer feed?