Proper Diet for 10 Week Old Golden Comets

[Pampered Poultry]

I have been reading these boards since I became a chicken owner 10 weeks ago, and I have really enjoyed the information.

I have a question about my 10 week old Golden Comets. From what I understand they start laying early, like around 15 weeks. Right now I still have them on the starter food and they free range several hours a day. When should I start them on the food for layers? Do you do that before they start laying? If so, how long before?

Also, do they need they oyster shells or scratch or anything else like that. I keep getting different information depending on who I talk to. I want to make sure I am giving them everything they need as they are on their way to laying eggs. Thanks!

 

[Mahonri]

I'd just feed them regular crumble for another 4 weeks and then introduce some layer pellets.

 

[dacjohns]

Scratch is not a complete feed, it is a supplement or a treat.

Oyster shells are a good idea but not necessary if your egg shells are not thin. That means you won't know if need oyster shells unless they are laying. I have some birds that don't get enough calcium from their food and others that do. I guess their metabolism is different. Also, oyster shells are not grit. Oyster shells are a calcium supplement and grit is little rocks that help grind up the food in the gizzard.