Leave the oyster shell out?

[adwil21]

I have a small flock of 1 year old laying hens and 7 new ones in the brooder (about 2 weeks old), when I introduce them I plan on switching to starter/grower feed for all. Do I leave the oyster shell out for the older ladies? I already have one hen who is prone to laying softer shell eggs on the dropping boards.

 

[NatJ]

Yes, keep a container of oyster shell available free choice.
The chicks will probably try a bit, but not eat enough to hurt themselves.

 

[Crazy Maizie]

Yep, just leave it out in a separate container. Those that need it will eat it.

 

[adwil21]

Yep, just leave it out in a separate container. Those that need it will eat it.

Thank you, I wasn't sure, worried that the little ones will eat it before they need it.

 

[rosemarythyme]

x3, leave it out. When I first add chicks I hang the oyster shell cup a little higher than usual, so the chicks can't access it too easily, but as they start growing they'll usually sample it and then lose interest in it until they begin laying.

 

[sixclicks]

That's right, simply forget about it in a different holder. Those that need it will eat it..