Oyster shells and when to switch to layer feed?

[nessie909]

Wondering when to switch to layer feed and when and how to give oyster shells? Right now they're right around 20 weeks old I believe. I also have a rooster and a few that are only around 16 weeks, will they be ok if they were to eat it? Right now they are still on a grower/finisher feed.

 

[Poultry parent]

the rooster will be fine, he won't eat the oyster shell because he doesn't need it. you can switch to layer feed when they start to lay, and you can just have free choice on oyster shells

 

[Donna R Raybon]

Excessive calcium in layer pellets is hard on a rooster's kidneys. Try to feed your rooster separate from hens. I have oyster shell and granite grit free choice. I feed gamebird grower cut with wild bird seed to about 18% protein.