over feeding

[codymac]

we received 12 chickens the eek of Easter 7 females & 5 males. They are eating about 30 lbs. per week plus scratch. Are they being over feed?

 

[amynrichie]

If there is not excessive waste on the ground, and they are actually eating it, I would not consider this overfeeding. I have a much larger mixed flock, so I can't really compare Actual amounts with yours. I go through about 75 pounds a week for 50 birds of varying ages, some turkeys, ducks, and chickens.

 

[QueenMisha]

Thats definitely a bit more than I'd expect them to be consuming. But it's near impossible for a bird to overeat feed - treats, sure, but rarely commercial ration. I'd expect the excess is simply being wasted.

 

[Donna R Raybon]

A standard size hen at laying age will eat a quarter pound of feed per day on average. So twelve birds will consume three pound per day and twenty one pounds per week. Waste and rodents can up that. If possible put feed in rodent proof area at night.

Larger breeds eat more. Cold weather birds eat more. If they free range they eat less. Poor quality feed costs you more in terms of a lack of results. Always feed the best you can afford.
Deworming helps increase feed efficiency, too.

What breeds do you have?

 

[codymac]

Thanks, it just looks like they are growing to fast. when do you think they will start laying eggs?

 

[aimeemarie01]

My chickens started laying eggs around six months and they are Rhode Island Red hens

 

[codymac]

We are feeding them DuMOR 15% grower/finisher and they seem to like it

 

[codymac]

Don't know we have white ones and red with some whit feathers. Bought them at Tractor Supply

 

[CluckerCottage]

Don't know we have white ones and red with some whit feathers. Bought them at Tractor Supply

By chance are the white ones really hefty and do they have large feet?

 

[aimeemarie01]

Don't know we have white ones and red with some whit feathers. Bought them at Tractor Supply 

I bought mine from tractor supply co too and they are red and white. They might be Rhode Island Red hens. I've also been feeding them dumor and they have grown much faster than my chickens in the past I think this is a great food for them