I have hens that are laying, juvenile chicks, and 2, 1 week old chicks (being raised by a broody). My question is what do I do for the feed? I let my chickens free range all day but when they do come in the runs, the ones on grower feed vs. the ones on layer feed, they all seem to eat each others food. And I noticed that my broody hen will take the chicks to all the areas to eat. Should I put them all on chick starter until the chicks start the grower, and then put them all on layer once they ALL start to lay? Thanks.
When my broody hatched eggs and when i added chicks to the flock I just put them all on the chick crumbs then starter feed and then back onto the layers once the youngest was ready for it. it doesnt do them any harm at all being on the younger feed. I have found though that the yolk of the laying hens eggs isnt as yummy when not on layers but it hasnt made any effect really and makes it alot easier if they are all eating the same food rather than trying to feed them separately
I would eliminate the layer feed totally as the younger birds don't need it and - as I understand it - too much calcium too young can actually harm them. I would feed them all chick feed and offer them oyster shells and crushed egg shells on the side. Those that need the extra calcium will take it, those that don't will leave it alone. I have a broody with only one six week old chick and they're both getting chick feed. She began laying eggs again at 5 weeks and the shells are fine.
