Rooster overmating one hen

[SkyAJK]

Your hens will have better feather s if you give them more protein Either add some protein snacks or give them a layer with more protein .

I did give my poor feather hens more protein, like a table spoon of sardine or egg twice a week, their eggs got bigger, but not the feather get better. What is the protein quantity and what type of protein? I am still looking for this... more sunflower seeds? The feed store here told me not too much sunflower seeds as it makes chicken fat, and fat chicken is not a good layer.

 

[FrostRanger]

I did give my poor feather hens more protein, like a table spoon of sardine or egg twice a week, their eggs got bigger, but not the feather get better. What is the protein quantity and what type of protein? I am still looking for this... more sunflower seeds? The feed store here told me not too much sunflower seeds as it makes chicken fat, and fat chicken is not a good layer.

Generally the easiest way to up protein is to feed a higher protein feed with 20% protein

 

[Gramma Chick]

Generally the easiest way to up protein is to feed a higher protein feed with 20% protein

Yes , You wont get immediate Results .. But with time they will look better .

 

[Mrs. K]

I have never had feathers change in damage until they molt.

 

[SkyAJK]

Generally the easiest way to up protein is to feed a higher protein feed with 20% protein

The only higher protein feed of 20% is chick starter feed and they all come with medication in it, except for the organic one which is like $55 for 20kg bag, very hefty.

Layer feed is between 16-17%.

I try to add extra protein on top of the layer feed, but it is hard to know if I meet this 20%. .....live and learn...

 

[SkyAJK]

Yes , You wont get immediate Results .. But with time they will look better .

I will keep a record from today, extra protein and changes.
Having backyard chickens is a lot of learning and it is a continuous improvement.

 

[SkyAJK]

I have never had feathers change in damage until they molt.

That is also what I noticed in my chickens. Most of my Isa Brown Hens never molt.

 

[Mrs. K]

Really, how odd - where are you at in the world? Mine molt hard and fast, look like girls with new dresses in a matter of weeks.

 

[Gramma Chick]

The only higher protein feed of 20% is chick starter feed and they all come with medication in it, except for the organic one which is like $55 for 20kg bag, very hefty.

Layer feed is between 16-17%.

I try to add extra protein on top of the layer feed, but it is hard to know if I meet this 20%. .....live and learn...

 

[Gramma Chick]

I live near a Feed mill .So i get my feed from them . They do 16 % & 20 %. And Chick feed isnt treated . I add Chick feed if they dont make the 20% . I havent bought from Tractor Supply for 10 years .