Newbie with some childhood Experience

[JenPfromCali]

Hi, I'm Jennifer.

I grew up with chickens around, but never really paid attention to how my grandparents took care of them. I consider myself a Newbie, with a general idea of what to do, and not do with chickens.

I have 2 red stars that are about 4 months old, and a 3rd that I'm not sure what she is. She was being a little neglected by a family member, so I kind of "commandeered" her. She's the reason I got the 2 red stars. She needed company.

One of my favorite aspects of having chickens is that they are funny to watch, and I really love it when they see me, because they come running to me a soon as they see me. It's so cute! (They aren't spoiled, or anything! lol )

I also have 4 dogs and 2 cats. My kids are grown and on their own. I'm married, and my husband is starting to have an appreciation for how funny they are, too.

I just found BYC tonight, through a Google search I did about chicken feed, and I joined right away so that I wouldn't lose this site. It looks fabulous!

 

[Jener8or]

It is nice of you to take in the chicken and get her some friends!

This is a great resource for anything poultry related. Definitely let us know if you have any questions or need any help with anything.

Thanks for joining and welcome to BackYard Chickens!

 

[Debbie292d]

Hiya, Jennifer, and welcome to BYC!

We're so glad you joined! If you hadn't seen our Learning Center yet, there's a lot of articles in there, something might help.

Did you get your question about feed answered? Most everyone here feeds either a layer feed, or an all-flock (higher protein than layer) then provide oyster shell in a separate dish as all-flock has too low of calcium for laying hens.

We use Kalmbach's Flock Maker (20%), for chicks and adults.

 

[pennyJo1960]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. This is a great place to explore and hang out.
Have a good time enjoy what life offers.

 

[JenPfromCali]

Hiya, Jennifer, and welcome to BYC!

We're so glad you joined! If you hadn't seen our Learning Center yet, there's a lot of articles in there, something might help.

Did you get your question about feed answered? Most everyone here feeds either a layer feed, or an all-flock (higher protein than layer) then provide oyster shell in a separate dish as all-flock has too low of calcium for laying hens.

We use Kalmbach's Flock Maker (20%), for chicks and adults.

Thank you, all for the kind welcome. Yes, I've been getting mine a layer feed with added oyster shell. I was curious about feeding them some left over black beans that I need to get rid of. It looks okay as a once in a while thing.

 

[Debbie292d]

Thank you, all for the kind welcome. Yes, I've been getting mine a layer feed with added oyster shell. I was curious about feeding them some left over black beans that I need to get rid of. It looks okay as a once in a while thing.

Usually, those kinds of things like beans, dried peas, and lentils are fine if sprouted or cooked. Otherwise, uncooked, they contain a toxin that sprouting or cooking neutralizes.

To sprout, just soak them overnight, then drain and put in a jar or container for a few days, keeping moist, and they'll sprout, then are safe.

 

[N F C]

Hi Jennifer, it's nice to have you here with us!

 

[chrissynemetz]

Hi, and welcome to BYC! We're so glad you decided to join us! Make yourself at home!

 

[OrpingtonManiac]

Hello and Welcome to BYC!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello Jennifer, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

You feed the oyster shell on the side, correct? What is the protein content of the layer feed?
I much prefer to feed an all flock type of feed that offers 18-20% protein with oyster shell fed free choice on the side. That way when they are molting or broody or have stopped ovulating permanently they won't be forced to consume excess calcium that their bodies do not need and will have a more optimal level of protein vs just the minimum recommended amount for survival.