Just starting over

[kgower]

It has been years since I have raised Chicks!!! I need to know when to start feeding them Oyster shells and Adult food. I have 3 Easter eggers, 1 Bantam, 1 Cuckoo Maran all 4 weeks old, and 2 Light Brahmas almost 7 weeks old now!!

 

[kpgoldstar]

It has been years since I have raised Chicks!!! I need to know when to start feeding them Oyster shells and Adult food. I have 3 Easter eggers, 1 Bantam, 1 Cuckoo Maran all 4 weeks old, and 2 Light Brahmas almost 7 weeks old now!!

I started layer feed just as soon as I got my first egg. I have heard and read that you don't need to start it any sooner. Mine started laying right around 20 weeks, 4 RIR's. I think I gave oyster shell a couple weeks later after noticing just a few thin-shelled eggs.

 

[seann]

Is oyster shell really a requirement?
What if I don't feed them oyster shells?

 

[kgower]

I don't think it is a requirement but it helps keep from having thin shelled eggs! I just don't want to give it to them too early!!