Oyster Shells

[jesus freak]

Can someone tell me what benifits the oyster shells have for chickens? Thanks

 

[Baymen Moe]

Extra calcium for strong egg shells.

 

[ScottyHOMEy]

They're a soluble source of calcium for laying birds. Used to provide the calcium for sturdy shells for birds that free-range or whose diet does not otherwise include enough calcium for that purpose. Generally makes for a healthier layer as they won't be tapping into the calcium in their bones to make shells. Left out for them as free choice, they'll find it and peck at it as their systems need it. They don't go through a lot on an individual basis, so you don't have to keep a lot of it back, but is should be available if you're keeping layers.

It is not a substitute for grit for the gizzard, which should be insoluble -- typically a fine, somewhat sharp gravel of coarse-ground stone.