Maine

[superchemicalgirl]

Just to add another opinion - I've transitioned 6 week old birds out to the coop where sometimes the only feed is layer. I usually offer 2 types of feed, layer and grower, and sometimes alternate, but layer is usually at least 60% of what I feed.

I don't think it's a good idea to wait until they start laying to add calcium. I like to increase their stores early (sometimes too early but it is what it is) because they deplete so much laying. When mine first start laying they have nice thick shells.

 

[lazy gardener]

I like the way SCG thinks, and I agree with that thought process. IMO, chicks transition to the flock better when done early, before they start getting their adult voices. Due to multiple issues, I've been delayed with that process here. I like to integrate before 8 weeks, for sure. As far as feed, I generally use multi-flock or unmedicated starter for the whole flock when I have chicks, but intend to put chicks and adults both on layer as soon as current bags of starter are used up.

 

[Hiltonizer]

+1 for putting layers on pellets early. Unless they're meat birds, or unless I have excess starter to burn through, one type of feed goes out to the pasture.

I do feed a higher protein layer pellet than most, 18%, which is very close to starter to begin with but of marginal importance. There's no issue with the added calcium once they're 6-8 weeks old, the internal organs of concern are largely mature at that age.

 

[islandgirl82]

Learning something new every day. Whenever I've had chicks, I've always waited until they're about 14-16 weeks before switching them over to layer because of the fear of organ damage but figured they were close enough to laying at that they'd be alright. As I've understood it, Roosters aren't supposed to have the layer feed either for the same reasons. Those of you who keep roosters, do you also let them have the layer or do you go with the grower/all flock type feeds?

 

[superchemicalgirl]

Learning something new every day. Whenever I've had chicks, I've always waited until they're about 14-16 weeks before switching them over to layer because of the fear of organ damage but figured they were close enough to laying at that they'd be alright. As I've understood it, Roosters aren't supposed to have the layer feed either for the same reasons. Those of you who keep roosters, do you also let them have the layer or do you go with the grower/all flock type feeds?

Roosters and toms and drakes and whatever you call a male guinea eat layer at this house.

 

[islandgirl82]

Roosters and toms and drakes and whatever you call a male guinea eat layer at this house.

Thank you for your reply and that's good to know. I don't have any chicks but my rooster is on the same feed as my hens, in part because I didn't have anything else on hand when he arrived unexpectedly and he's foraging mostly anyway.

 

[lazy gardener]

So many folks get bent out of shape about younger birds eating layer pellets. However, you rarely hear those same folks getting upset about roosters eating layer. IMO, it's not such a big deal. Yeah, when I have chicks, I keep the whole flock on starter or multi-flock. And often do the same in the winter, figuring that they need more protein. I may be misguided on that point. But, if birds are foraging, they're getting loads of calcium from the vegetation. How often do you hear of a rooster getting sick and dying? If a roo who NEVER lays eggs can handle the calcium, I'm guessing that a pullet who will eventually start laying can handle the calcium also. Nor, do the same folks who get upset about non laying birds getting layer feed take them off layer pellets when they molt, or take a winter break.

 

[MistyMae]

Ok, next newbie question. I was thinking of putting some solar lights around my run. I think it will look nice and if there is a commotion back there, I may be able to see what is going on as I race out to the rescue. Will the solar lights be an ok idea? Or am I just lighting the way for predators?

 

[lazy gardener]

IMO, they would be a good idea, as long as they don't shine in the coop windows. I have several solar lights between my back door and the coop: The kind that you stick into the ground.

 

[superchemicalgirl]

Ok, next newbie question. I was thinking of putting some solar lights around my run. I think it will look nice and if there is a commotion back there, I may be able to see what is going on as I race out to the rescue. Will the solar lights be an ok idea? Or am I just lighting the way for predators?

My own opinion - solar lights don't get enough juice in the winter.

I bought Mr Beam (find them on Amazon). They're bright, motion sensored and battery operated. I have them in strategic places around the runs and around the house and they help immensely with chores (including non barn chores like shoveling after 3 pm in winter or trying to find your house key at midnight when you're trying to get in the house to go to bed).

They're amazing.

For what it's worth I also have 2 solar lights and they suck.