mixing store bought feeds

[matt44644]

How long does the 50# bag last?

 

[pdirt]

I would focus on a better feeder, one that reduces waste. The bucket with a large Pvc pipe elbow looks like a good one, and cheap to make. Though for your size flock, you might want to build a couple.

Also, rather than mixing the 21% feed with scratch as 50/50, you're have a better protein content if you mixed it more like 70/30 feed/scratch. As 50/50, your protein is too low and the chickens could stop laying, lose weight or be more susceptible to illness.

X2 on just feeding th oyster shell on the side. It's easy to overdo calcium in your own mixes, and which can make your birds sick and/or die, not overnight, but over long term. Also it's not good for your two roosters. Just keep it on the side and the hens in lay will eat what they need. This is what we do and it works great.

We had a waste problem with our treadle feeder until I made an insert with holes in it. Virtually nixes the waste issue.

 

[cavemanrich]

Here is the feeder I like much. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...te-5-gallon-25-feed-bucket-feeder-for-about-3

 

[mpgo4th]

How long does the 50# bag last?

about 7 days. That was with 22 birds which included 6 roosters and only layer, no scratch.

 

[matt44644]

Quote: That's about the correct amount .

 

[justplainbatty]

I never use grit. My birds have a 60 by 30 outdoor fenced in run and are let out on 2.5 acres daily.

My birds used to free range on 20 acres and now on 5. However, grit is something I have never left to chance. It is something they must have above all else so I make sure they get it. Grit should always be available on demand. Please excuse my passion on the subject.

 

[justplainbatty]

about 7 days. That was with 22 birds which included 6 roosters and only layer, no scratch.

That's 7Lb's a day! How? I don't understand!

Somebody else must be helping your chickens eat that much food!

 

[mpgo4th]

Anyone tried this one?
http://www.peckomatic.com/index.html

 

[mpgo4th]

That's 7Lb's a day! How? I don't understand!:/ Somebody else must be helping your chickens eat that much food!

I know! It happened over night as soon as the weather got cold.

 

[matt44644]

Quote: Common average is 1.5 - 2 lbs per bird per week.At 2 lbs x 22 birds = 44 lbs per week / 7 days = 6 .29 lbs per day.
6 pound difference over seven days.Count for spillage ,extra eating etc.