New feed, and my flock is being picky!

[TwinkleUp]

I stumbled upon really nutritious sounding layer feed produced at a local goat farm, and because I’m trying to support small businesses, I’m giving it a try with my flock. They are used to layer pellets from the feed store, but this feed is chock-full of yummy stuff. Only, they refuse to eat the peas. They eat the grain, but leave the peas. And because the farm is an hour round trip, my husband insisted on buying four bags instead of the two I anticipated going through this month, so I have 200 pounds of this feed. Any ideas on how to get them to eat all of it so they aren’t missing out on nutrients?

 

[Cindy in PA]

I am surprised that they don't eat the cracked peas, but I do know chickens are slow to eat whole peas. The only solution I can think of is to be slow to fill the feeder until they eat the peas! Not very helpful.

 

[TwinkleUp]

I had the same thought...I’ve been a pushover so far, and refilled when they come begging!

 

[GC-Raptor]

Most whole grain feeds are best served fermented. Otherwise chickens will pick out their favorites, which coincidently are high carbohydrate, low Protein stuff.
That can lead to feather picking. GC

 

[Perris]

x2 on fermenting it.

 

[TwinkleUp]

Thank you! I’ve never done fermenting before, but that was another thought I had, if only to soften the peas up.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Peas won't really soften with fermenting but it makes them stick to everything else, so the chickens have to eat everything equally.

 

[TwinkleUp]

Thank you for the advice to try fermenting the feed. They LOVE it! I am swarmed by the entire flock every time I step out the door.