Nutrena layer, bag says that you need oystershell or limestone...?

[Bettacreek]

So, I was looking at their layer pages on their site, and read that it says that you still need to provide oystershell or limestone with the layer ration. If this is the case, then what's the point? Why not just purchase a cheaper grower/finisher?

 

[catdaddy66]

When chickens/hens reach laying age (about 18-22 weeks old) they need added calcium from oyster shells or other sources to process into firm shells that don't break easily. Some wait to see the first egg or 2 then add it, but some give it a week or so earlier in anticipation of the first egg. Young hens cannot handle a lot of extra calcium due to the extra load on the kidneys to filter it from their system, as it could be toxic in too high of a concentration. Cheaper grower/finisher is not the answer to your question, as this would have even less calcium than the better brands, requiring more oyster shell added to the diet.

I know that different breeds reach laying maturity at different times, so I will watch for the first egg and add from there. A small container would suffice for a few birds, more for many, and should be fed free choice, available at all times for whoever wants/needs it.

Hope that helps!

 

[Akane]

Usually layer is cheaper because of the lower protein level. Otherwise you could just feed a nonmedicated chick starter with oyster shell or game bird feed with oyster shell. Layer just happens to usually be the cheapest and oyster shell is dirt cheap so it works out to be the most cost effective for most. No one ever said it contained all the calcium that all chickens need. It's often suggested to have oyster shell out just in case even if your layer feed doesn't say so.

 

[Bettacreek]

Most feeds have enough calcium for them, at least in my experience. The whole point of buying layer ration is so that you DON'T necessarily have to supplement with more calcium. I asked them for a guaranteed analysis, since they can't be bothered to add it to their website,

so we'll see what the calcium level actually is in their 20% "layer". I'll probably end up just sticking with the Purina game bird layer, which doesn't require me to add extra junk to it.
As for the oyster shell being cheap, around here, it's not exactly cheap, especially when I can pay $1 more for a 50lb bag of layer feed that already has the necessary calcium, which ends up being cheaper AND less of a pain in the arse than adding oyster shell.

Thanks guys.

 

[Dogfish]

I have a few clients who are oyster growers, so access to shell isn't an issue. How much would you go through for 5 or 10 hens in a month?

I figure I'll get a few bushells of oysters, eat those, then boil the shells, dry and crush. My guess is the main cost to you for oystershell is shipping. It is a waste by-product here on the coast of Washington. How much are you paying for it, and how much do you buy at a time?

 

[12GAGirl]

I use TSC Dumor brand and it is printed on the bag no other supplements needed. But I give my flock a small amount of oyster shell mixed in their feed anyway.

 

[Akane]

I have several dozen chickens eating it and I go through a bag of oyster shell maybe every 6months if that. I'm betting their calcium level isn't any lower than another feed they are just being more responsible and making sure your chickens are healthy by recommending oyster shell.