Layer feed or all flocks for non-mixed flock?

[K0k0shka]

Hi,
I’m having trouble with my girls (4 of them, 2.5 yrs) not eating much of the Chewy purchased Kalmbach Henhouse Reserve 17% protein “organic”.
I had switched from
Nutrna Nature Wise Harvest Blend 18% protein in the winter. Which I think they ate more of. So, in reading these comments it sounds like layer feed isn’t the way to go anyway. That flock feed is better. And high protein isn’t that necessary.
Is that right? I’m gonna look on Chewy to see if they carry it. Thx.

I would say 18% should be the minimum, and 20% is even better, in terms of protein.

 

[RoyalChick]

I would say 18% should be the minimum, and 20% is even better, in terms of protein.

Agree.

 

[Debbie292d]

Caveat emptor, I guess. A slight blemish on Kalmbach's image.

I was all set to get some as a dry feed on the side until I saw the calcium. I have two pullets, 6 weeks and 8 weeks, arriving in two weeks, so I'm going to postpone this until they are also laying. Gets frustrating when trying to simplify!

Couldn’t you try the Kalmbachs Flock Maker I linked above? That’s more like a typical all flock, higher protein (20%) lower calcium. We buy the crumbles in 50# bags.

 

[Mother of Chaos]

Couldn’t you try the Kalmbachs Flock Maker I linked above? That’s more like a typical all flock, higher protein (20%) lower calcium. We buy the crumbles in 50# bags.

View attachment 4173590

Yep, that’s on the list now (this week, anyway) for the available-all-day feed. I’ll continue with fermented Chickhouse Reserve in the mornings. I think there’s a mini-pellet version.

 

[Chickensarecool123]

Actually, most local mills aren't better, most haven't updated their feed formulas since the cold war.
I like nutrena feeds.
Mealworms and scratch should not be given every day, they're treats (junkfood) and will make a subpar diet woWar.
About a pinch per bird, once or twice a week.

My young pullet and the newer chicks don’t even eat mealworms anymore maybe because I would give them some everyday (mistake on my part) but they refuse to eat it and will now do anything for oats and blueberries including pecking my eye thinking its one lol

 

[nuthatched]

My young pullet and the newer chicks don’t even eat mealworms anymore maybe because I would give them some everyday (mistake on my part) but they refuse to eat it and will now do anything for oats and blueberries including pecking my eye thinking its one lol

Don't let them eye height. :]