Looking for info on grit and oyster shells

[BigBlueHen53]

So the chicks I just put on bedding should they get grit? I have heard mixed messages on grit for chicks

They don't really need grit if all they are eating is chick feed. But if there's a chance they may eat the bedding, the grit will help protect them. Or if you want to start giving them treats or take them outside on the lawn, they need it.

 

[african chickens]

Thank you everyone for all the help I really appreciate it

 

[K0k0shka]

Sure, make it sound easy!

Well, it’s not very hard once you have guidelines

One caveat, though (caution): keep the oyster shell dry. I've read reports here that OS kept outside turns to mush in the rain.

Eggshell, too. Won’t turn to mush but the leftover bits of egg will get re-moistened, go bad and STINK. Whatever calcium you use, it should be kept inside the coop. The grit I keep in a small flower pot outside. The pot has a drainage hole so water won’t collect in the pot, making it hard for the chickens to get to the rocks underwater.

 

[AntiqueB]

Remember to have chick (starter) grit for chicks. That type is crushed into smaller pieces. They won't be able to use adult grit. I sprinkle a small amount on their moistened feed every couple days. When they get a bit older, I give them a cup hanging on the hardware cloth. I usually have both grower and layer grit sizes mixed together so everyone can find the perfect size.

 

[Aaron Lynn]

One caveat, though (caution): keep the oyster shell dry. I've read reports here that OS kept outside turns to mush in the rain.

Totally agree.

First of all, separate containers for shell grit and gravel are essential - they need free access to these (many people mix these things into the feed, which is wrong).

Keeping them dry means the container needs to have a rain cover and drainage holes at the bottom.It would be even better if there were a viewing window to monitor stock levels.

For example, this one

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FFT41ZCH/

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Or you can keep them in the coop.