Layer feed and oyster shell?

[MPJ]

My girls are only 12 weeks old but when they start laying and I switch them to layer feed should I also provide oyster shell on the side? I believe layer feed has calcium in it so just want to make sure. Thanks

 

[Polish_kid2020]

I would give them layer feed. And for the oyster shells I would only give them a little a week so they don't eat to much and have to much calcium because then there will be bumps on their eggs.

 

[RondZee]

I place both out. A small amount for them, as they know what they need and consume it.
Haven't had any issues with the egg shells. Its really your call. Some feed comes with it, but the cost is a little suspect, so I buy the bag, which is cheap for 50 lbs at a local distributor.

 

[DobieLover]

My girls are only 12 weeks old but when they start laying and I switch them to layer feed should I also provide oyster shell on the side? I believe layer feed has calcium in it so just want to make sure. Thanks

Oyster shell is always offered on the side, not mixed in with the feed. I have three containers placed in high traffic zones so it's always in their faces so to speak.
I do not feed layer feed at all. I feed Flock Raiser and a homemade mix that used fish meal for the protein source and is fermented. The protein content of what I feed is 19-20%.
I don't feel that layer feed offers adequate protein content.

 

[chickenenthusiasts5698]

I use Purina layena (it’s formulated with oyster shell in it) and never have soft eggs.

 

[RondZee]

Oyster shell is always offered on the side, not mixed in with the feed. I have three containers placed in high traffic zones so it's always in their faces so to speak.
I do not feed layer feed at all. I feed Flock Raiser and a homemade mix that used fish meal for the protein source and is fermented. The protein content of what I feed is 19-20%.
I don't feel that layer feed offers adequate protein content.

I'm still working on my personal feed mixture. I live inside city limits and our gardens usually are the extra parts they get, plus any fish we get, they get the remaining parts and they love it.