Layer pellets

[Pretty Girls]

My girls are 12 weeks, when should I start layer pellets.

 

[PirateGirl]

Don't switch until they start laying. I have heard some argument that the drop in protein from grower to layer can slow growth and delay the start of laying. I don't know if there is truth to this admittedly. They don't need the layer pellets yet. Also you can put oyster shell on the side in a few weeks and those close to laying may nibble at it. A better gauge than number of weeks old is what your chickens look like. When their wattles and combs get big and red and they start squatting they are close to laying. It could be a few weeks, it could be a few months, each bird is different.

 

[Barbs Girls]

How

Don't switch until they start laying. I have heard some argument that the drop in protein from grower to layer can slow growth and delay the start of laying. I don't know if there is truth to this admittedly. They don't need the layer pellets yet. Also you can put oyster shell on the side in a few weeks and those close to laying may nibble at it. A better gauge than number of weeks old is what your chickens look like. When their wattles and combs get big and red and they start squatting they are close to laying. It could be a few weeks, it could be a few months, each bird is different.[/QUOTE
How about when they get louder? All of a sudden Priscilla has gotten really loud when she’s talking? Is she close?

 

[Pretty Girls]

Don't switch until they start laying. I have heard some argument that the drop in protein from grower to layer can slow growth and delay the start of laying. I don't know if there is truth to this admittedly. They don't need the layer pellets yet. Also you can put oyster shell on the side in a few weeks and those close to laying may nibble at it. A better gauge than number of weeks old is what your chickens look like. When their wattles and combs get big and red and they start squatting they are close to laying. It could be a few weeks, it could be a few months, each bird is different.

 

[Pretty Girls]

Great thank you. I am new to this and looking for any and all information I can get.

 

[GC-Raptor]

I would put Oyster Shells out at 16 weeks.
If all are the same age and breed I would start switching to Layers feed when their combs are red and swollen and they squat.
If they are different breeds then wait till all breeds are squatting when you put your hand over them.
I mixed Layers pellets with Start and Grow 50/50 for two weeks then just added Layers pellets to feeder.
I also mixed Layers Pellets with scratch grains and tossed on the ground, so they get used to pellets. If you are switching to Layers Crumbles, you can skip that.
I am currently feeding a Non-Medicated 18% Protein Start and Grow to my 3 two year olds with Oyster Shells in a separate container. Because my hens feather pick with a 16% Layers feed, and I can get a 25# bag. GC