Mixed ages in my flock - question about timing of switching to layer feed

[Lilchickie]

I have 6 chickens - three are coming up on 18 weeks, and the other 3 are three weeks younger. So, as I understand it, the hens should be getting layer feed once they reach 18 weeks. I'm not sure what to do about the younger ones.

I am thinking what I should do is just delay switching the older hens by a week or so, and the younger ones will get the layer feed a couple of weeks early.

Thoughts? Is it a big deal for the younger ones to switch early?

 

[Fred's Hens]

The birds do not HAVE to be on Layer feed. This is general misnomer. What laying hens need is calcium, as they are laying an egg shell on most days, expelling calcium carbonate from their bodies. There's nothing special about Layer feed except that calcium is added in larger amounts for the convenience of the flock keeper.

The same thing can be accomplished through providing a calcium source, such as oyster shells on the side. Only the birds who are craving the calcium normally mess with them.

Your birds are not that far apart in age. If you wish to feed the Layer, that's fine. Wait until the eggs are really coming from the slightly older group. By that time, your older birds will likely be 22 weeks and the younger 19 weeks and then the concern becomes irrelevant.

This is a wonderful time for you and your flock, watching them come into lay. Enjoy your birds.

 

[Lilchickie]

great - thanks for the advice!!