New guy trying to figure out food.

[Steig]

Hello everyone.

I have been reading off BYC for a while now but this is my first post.
I just put my first batch of eggs into lock down. These are my first experience with any type of birds so learning as I go. I have read quite a bit about feeding them and am a little confused.
So this is where I'm at. I have both Texas A&M and Jumbos. I can't find game bird food close to home. I can find 35% layer premix (mash) and 26% turkey starter. I have read you want high protien to make big bird. Correct me if I'm wrong the 35% layer premix is not a complete diet? If I mix the two foods with a 50/50 mix would this be a good diet? I'm raising these guys mostly for edible eggs and some meat on the side so would like big birds. I've also heard someone at some point say they leave the light on 24/7 to promote growth is this common practice?
Thank you all in advance for any input. Its getting down to the wire here and just want it all clear in my head.

Trevor

 

[nicktrkula]

the 26 percent turkey starter is fine and only keep on a light for like a one or 2 hour buffer after natural light begins to dim but if they will be in natural light you dont need artificial light .24/7 can damage the birds

 

[kingmt]

26%is high enough as long as it isn't treated. You could use the higher also or even mix them of that is what you want to do. I've read that to high of protein will shorten their life span but mine got cycled before that was a concern.