Must Have Items - Happy Flock

[Austin_ChickenKing2020]

Hey all, I just wanted to ask what items should I have a recurring order going on for and what sources would you recommend (stores) online or brick and mortar?

I am currently thinking of items such as bedding (straw, wood shavings, etc), diatomaceous earth, feed, Apple cider vinegar, treats for the flock?

Any recommendations would be appreciated. I have been going to Wilco buying things as I need them. I don’t know if this is the best option but it’s working. I live in SW Washington.

Also what will be a good layer feed for my girls once they get closer to point of lay?

 

[Mrs. K]

For a happy flock, as much space as possible, and a lot of clutter in that space. Pallets and hideouts, roosts and mini walls, boxes or totes on their sides, multiple feed stations. Things that let birds get on top of or underneath or behind are things to make birds happy.

 

[Austin_ChickenKing2020]

For a happy flock, as much space as possible, and a lot of clutter in that space. Pallets and hideouts, roosts and mini walls, boxes or totes on their sides, multiple feed stations. Things that let birds get on top of or underneath or behind are things to make birds happy.

Thanks @Mrs. K for the advice

 

[aart]

Nix the DE and ACV...not needed, nor beneficial(no matter how many places you read that they are).

Not sure a reoccurring order would work, even after 7 years I couldn't do that.
Things fluctuate so much.

You don't want to get too far ahead on feed or it'll go stale,
and I prefer to buy feed in person so I can check MFG dates to get the freshest bag.
I feed an 'all flock' type formulation from hatch to harvest, with Oyster Shell on the side for the active layers. Treats should be kept to a minimum and are not necessary anyway.

 

[Austin_ChickenKing2020]

Nix the DE and ACV...not needed, nor beneficial(no matter how many places you read that they are).

Not sure a reoccurring order would work, even after 7 years I couldn't do that.
Things fluctuate so much.

You don't want to get too far ahead on feed or it'll go stale,
and I prefer to buy feed in person so I can check MFG dates to get the freshest bag.
I feed an 'all flock' type formulation from hatch to harvest, with Oyster Shell on the side for the active layers. Treats should be kept to a minimum and are not necessary anyway.

@aart
Thanks for the information. That is sound advice. I really appreciate it. What type of feed do you buy for your flock? Is there a brand you like over others?

 

[aart]

Is there a brand you like over others?

I've always used Purina Flock Raiser, tried a couple others, but that's the freshest and most available.

 

[Chickassan]

Im a chewy.com person.
I only have a small flock of 15 birds though but iv'e used them for about two years now and they've continuously raised selection,quality, and service.
I have kalmbach layer on autodelivery along with kalmbach's all flock.
I can set the frequency of delivery and orders over 40$ ship free no matter the weight.
My fedex man HATES me lol!
But seriously they have everything for all poultry life stages, treats and medication too.

 

[Austin_ChickenKing2020]

Im a chewy.com person.
I only have a small flock of 15 birds though but iv'e used them for about two years now and they've continuously raised selection,quality, and service.
I have kalmbach layer on autodelivery along with kalmbach's all flock.
I can set the frequency of delivery and orders over 40$ ship free no matter the weight.
My fedex man HATES me lol!
But seriously they have everything for all poultry life stages, treats and medication too.

@Chickassan
Thanks for the referral. I will look into that!

 

[Three Little Bunnies]

Hi! I use Nature's Best organic feed. They do not have an all-flock feed as far as I know, but I have used their feed for my chicks and laying hens. I provide oyster shell for my big girls as well. In my opinion, ACV and diatomaceous earth DO work, and they have multiple uses. DE can be used for dust-bathing spots and is good for safely keeping crawling insects out of your house. ACV is good for chickens' digestive systems, can be used as a flytrap, and can be used for human foods.