Most of the crucial development takes place in the first few days, and the balance, over the first few weeks. If they don't have sufficient protein during that time, they tend to end up bantam sized instead of jumbo. Since the bags don't cost any different anywhere I've ever been I'd say it isn't worth going with less unless it's all you can get. I've yet to encounter a store that won't order feed for me either, so if they don't carry it they can typically get it. Especially anyone who is a purina dealer.
That said I've seen chicks raised on 24%, that grew to a normal size, but I don't keep them around long enough to know how it affects them later in life being reared on lower protein. I've also created a whole batch of runts using chicken starter and hard boiled eggs. That was one sorry lot of birds compared to normal.
There is even research that suggests 24% as starter for coturnix and 20 percent as breeder food, so there surely is no danger in it. However keep in mind most of the research is funded as agricultural development, so they are looking for the minimum requirements for a healthy bird.
My personal recommendation is 30% for chicks and 20-24% for adult cots because it's worked the best for me. Many people even some of the people I learned from suggest feeding 30% their entire life. I personally have noticed an increase of prolapse in hens prone to large eggs when kept on 30% which is the only reason I don't do it. Otherwise they are healthy as possible and actually eat a bit less when fed 30% as adults. Again the bags are all the same price.
Hm, I've heard someone say it
Do you think chick starter/grower with 20% would be okay if I supplement with eggs?
Adults yes, chicks no. As I mentioned above I fed 21% chicken starter mixed with hard boiled eggs to a large group, and ended up with a whole bunch of 7-8 ounce birds, from 10-14 oz stock.
Doesn't mean a thing, both males and females have it, but it sure is cute isn't it?
Ah, I see
