protein %

[bluefeather2697]

hi guys!

how much protein or crude protein do i have to feed laying hens?
currently feeding 16% and laying rate is low.

 

[Fred's Hens]

16% is normal. Jacking the protein wouldn't likely increase lay rates. Spring is right around the corner and laying will pick up. Lack of light in winter is much more likely to be the cause than protein. I do prefer 17-18%, but 15-16% is the standard in the egg industry, but remember, they make heavy use of artificial lighting.

 

[Cindy in PA]

16% is fine unless you are feeding them a lot of lower protein treats (scratch, greens etc.). That is why some people feed higher protein. I feed 20% so that I can have "fun" feeding scratch and other things and not water down their protein % too much. It depends on how you like to feed.

 

[galanie]

16% is fine unless you are feeding them a lot of lower protein treats (scratch, greens etc.).  That is why some people feed higher protein.  I feed 20% so that I can have "fun" feeding scratch and other things and not water down their protein % too much.  It depends on how you like to feed.

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