oyster shell ?

[lovin my girls]

Hi,

Is it o.k. to mix oyster shell in with the feed? Or should I put the oyster shell out in a bowl by itself?

Thanks!!

 

[easttxchick]

I actually do both-mix a bit in with the feed and have a bowl with just oyster shell in it.

 

[dirtsaver]

It's best to offer oyster shell and grit free-choice in seperate containers. Most commercial layer feeds contain some calcium anyway so the hens get some in normal eating and if they need more it's available to them.

Larry

 

[ginormous chicken]

My understanding is oyster shells are for when chicken need extra calcium. You know when they lay. If you feed a complete lay formula you would already have calcium in it. I was told to put it on the side in case they just need calcium but don't feel hungry for food. I don't think it would hurt if you mix it and a lot of people do, I put mine on the side incase they get "peckish"

for calcium. Ok bad pun!


______________________________________
Proud Mama to: 1Delaware, 3Ameraucanas, 1OEBantam, 1BCM, 1Black Silkie, 1Mille Fleur, 1 Service Dog, 2Ped Dogs, 1Parrot, ALoT of Lizards, THE SNAKES,
and 1 very understanding DH!

 

[al6517]

Quote:
My option as well.

 

[ekemily]

I have a separate feeder with oyster shell. I've been surprised at how much of it they eat. I feed them a high quality layer ration for their main feed. I bought a 50 pound bag of crushed oyster shell for $7.25 today. It should take my 30+ hens a while to eat it up. I don't see the point in going through the extra work of mixing it into their feed. Sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing.

 

[lovin my girls]

Wow....thank you all so much for your help and advice with this.

I'm going to put the oyster shell in it's own bowl for them.

Thanks again.