Layer feed early?

[rheachic36]

Is it really bad if I feed my flock Layer feed 2 weeks early? They are currently on chick starter (15 weeks old) My timeline says to start them on layer feed in 2 weeks (july 29th, today is july 11th) but I am out of feed and have to go to store tomorrow. They only sell big feed bags at my store so dont want to buy a bunch of starter feed. Do you think its ok to start on layer feed and oyster shells now?

 

[ConPollos]

My layers are on starter grower crumbles still because I don't want my younger pullets to eat layer feed and get damaged organs. I set out a bowl of oyster shells for the layers and they eat it as needed.

 

[pdirt]

The "timeline" of switching to layer feed at 18 weeks is overly generic, imo. Our pullets have usually started laying somewhere between 23 and 34 weeks. Either wait until they are all laying or do what ConPollos does and feed starter or grower with a side dish of crushed oyster shells. They will eat the shells for producing eggshells if they need it as will leave it alone if they don't. The main difference between layer feed and any other chicken feed is layer already has extra calcium mixed in. It's not good for chickens not currently laying eggs (and dangerous for young chicks) to eat layer feed because of the extra calcium.

 

[rheachic36]

Thank you! Will get more starter feed then