Oyster Shells

[nhpendleton]

My girls are 17 weeks, not laying eggs yet but close. Some of their faces have changed just last week (more red) and started squatting when I pet them or pick them up. When did you all introduce oyster shell as a supplement?

 

[Elizabethwood09]

What are they eating? If they are still eating chick starter/grower you can introduce a small dish of oyster shell when the first one starts laying. When they are all laying you can switch them to layer feed which should have enough calcium that you will not need to offer additional such as oyster shell.

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

I would put a dish out now, and just switch to an All Flock after you run out of whatever you are currently feeding them if you are not feeding an All flock already.

 

[nhpendleton]

What are they eating? If they are still eating chick starter/grower you can introduce a small dish of oyster shell when the first one starts laying. When they are all laying you can switch them to layer feed which should have enough calcium that you will not need to offer additional such as oyster shell.

Yes, starter/grower right now. Thanks for the response.

 

[SueT]

If there is oyster shell available (on the side) the ones that need it will take it. I actually just sprinkle it on the ground.
It's so exciting waiting for first eggs! You'll have to update us!

 

[nhpendleton]

If there is oyster shell available (on the side) the ones that need it will take it. I actually just sprinkle it on the ground.
It's so exciting waiting for first eggs! You'll have to update us!

Thanks for the advice, will do.

 

[GC-Raptor]

When did you all introduce oyster shell as a supplement?

GC

 

[Whigru]

I introduced around 16 or 17 weeks and noticed a week or so later that they were dipping into it.

 

[GC-Raptor]

I introduced around 16 or 17 weeks and noticed a week or so later that they were dipping into it.

My Barred Rocks were consuming Oyster Shells at 17 weeks old and started to lay at 20 weeks. All 7 were laying by 23 weeks.
My newest additions.

I have 5. They are ISA Browns 12 weeks old.
My Barred Rocks are 23 months, only have 3 left.

Enjoying a wet mash today made with their regular feed and cold water. GC