Picky Eaters

[Appytaz]

I have been feeding a mixture of scratch and layena mixed together. The group is going thru the feed and just picking out the scratch. These chickens free range 24/7 and refuse to eat any kitchen scrapes. Would it be safe to switch to just the scratch?

 

[cyanne]

My understanding is that scratch is really just a treat to be given in moderation, something you toss in the run to give them something to pick at. It is not nutritionally complete, so it would not be healthy for them to eat it as their only feed.

Depending on the age of your chickens, they should be getting either a starter crumble, laying feed, flock raiser, or something along those lines which meets their nutritional requirements.

If they are being picky, I would just provide the feed by itself and not give them any scratch until they are eating the feed regularly.

 

[panner123]

You say they free range 24/7, just give then a small amount of the layer
feed. When they figure out that it is the layer feed or nothing, they will start eating right. Cut out the scartch until they are eating the layer like it is going to be their last meal.

 

[Appytaz]

Thanks for the replies. They are going on straight Layena tonight.

 

[Buff Hooligans]

If I were offered Twinkies mixed with broccoli, you better believe I'd be picking out and eating the Twinkies first!!! Chickens are smart!

 

[cluckychick]

I feed scratch in the early morning by throwing it in the run while I check for eggs and then usually I throw some out in the evening as well when it starts to cool down. During the day someone usually comes over (usually BIL) and feeds them treats/scraps and visits with them.