need more protein!!!

[lazy gardener]

Along with a crowding issue, you may want to look at feeding dynamics. If the birds crowd around a feeder, there may be a lot of pecking. Some people feed in a gutter or a line on the ground to avoid this to make sure every one gets a fair share. Might be worth observing their behavior at feeding time. I stopped using bowls and feed randomly on the ground, believe it or not, so all birds have options.

If it is protein, BOSS (black oil sunflower seeds) and/or mealworms would add that...

BOSS will not do much to increase protein content in the diet, but will add significantly to the fat, which IMO is counterproductive most of the year.

Black oil sunflower seeds will be about 17% protein, 44% fat and 24% neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Striped sunflower seeds will be about 16% protein, 24% fat and 40% NDF.Aug 4, 2014

 

[mobius]

Holy cow, batman! I thought BOSS was high in protein! I stand corrected!!

 

[lazy gardener]

 

[casportpony]

I'm thinking you have a crowding issue.

That's what I was thinking...

 

[casportpony]

For those that want to feed a higher protein layer feed check out this:
https://www.purinamills.com/game-bird-feed/products/detail/purina-game-bird-layena-etts



Tractor Supply can special order it and cost here is about $20 for 50 pounds.

 

[donrae]

If you want to boost protein, just feed a grower or starter, or a flock raiser. Pretty much any feed in higher protein than the 16% layer. You may need to add supplemental calcium, like oyster shell.

 

[lazy gardener]

Some grower feeds in this area are only 15%, so gotta look at those labels.

 

[casportpony]

Most turkey/game bird starters will be 25% to 30% protein, but I think the calcium to phosphorus ratio is not appropriate for layers.

 

[casportpony]

Some grower feeds in this area are only 15%, so gotta look at those labels.

You're right!

Quote:

 

[Weehopper]

You might want to switch to Flock Raiser feed, and keep oyster shell available on the side. I believe it is 20% protein. My birds don't feather pick, and they really like the feed.