scattering feed?

[lisamcconnell]

Hi All,

I just started sprouting my own seed/grain/pea mix and would like to try scattering it instead of using the feeder. The mix is wet and clumps up in the feeder. But I have no idea how much to scatter! I have laying hens who are 13 weeks old. Maybe I am just making this too difficult and should stick to the feeder!

thanks,
lisa

 

[ChickenToes]

I would scatter 2 or 3 cups worth. Some people don't like to scatter feed because the chickens never quite eat all of it and it goes to waste.

 

[Sunny Side Up]

That sounds like a wonderful & healthy treat! You could give it to them in a dish like a big plastic plant saucer, that way less of it is likely to get wasted.

But I wouldn't give them much more than they could eat up in a few minutes. Pullets at 13 weeks are still growing and probably should get most of their nourishment from their grower feed.

If they really like it, you could use this opportunity to train them to come to you when you call. Start by making the signal while you're feeding them the sprouts. Call "here chick-chick-chick" or shake some seeds in a can or ring a bell or something. Do it while they're eating their treat, soon they'll associate the call with something good and come to you every time you call them like that.

 

[lisamcconnell]

Yeah, I feel like I am wasting feed so right now I think I will stick to using the feeder.

Also, I am going to post another topic about using this as a feed because it's not meant to be a "treat" but their primary feed so I'd like to bring that up for discussion, too.

Thanks so much for your replies!

Lisa