We hatch chicks every year. That means we have to use crumble, keeping things simple that means the entire flock is on unmedicated starter/grower. Once the last batch of chicks reach 10-ish weeks of age the entire flock moves back to pellet feed. Keeping it simple again and not wanting excess calcium, low protein layer feed for growing birds we supply turkey/gamebird finisher for everyone. Layers are supplied handful of oyster shell tossed on the ground each week for calcium supplement. There is less waste in pellet form from both wildlife and strewn on ground to rot.
My feed brand is the family name of local mill. $12.50/ 50 lbs bag.
To introduce chicks to the soil environment they will be on after the brooder you put a small amount of soil in brooder or as a member suggested a clump of grass with roots and soil all attached. They get to peck at the grass and soil for treat and slow introduction to local organisms. We don't use medicated feed, we are not in the south where cocci is more prevalent.
My feed brand is the family name of local mill. $12.50/ 50 lbs bag.
To introduce chicks to the soil environment they will be on after the brooder you put a small amount of soil in brooder or as a member suggested a clump of grass with roots and soil all attached. They get to peck at the grass and soil for treat and slow introduction to local organisms. We don't use medicated feed, we are not in the south where cocci is more prevalent.
