Scratch vs. grains

[BrownEggFan]

I have read that scratch should not be fed during warmer weather as it raises the body temperature of the birds. Also, feeding too much grain can cause the birds to be overweight and not lay well. I'm new to the world of chickens, so I guess my first question is what, exactly, is scratch? I know it is a corn / seed mix fed to birds on the ground, but is there a specific formula? My next question is, can I feed wheat, buckwheat, sunflower seeds, etc. during warmer weather as a treat without risk of causing overheating? I have water and layer mash available 24 / 7 for my flock but want to provide some additional protein as well as provide them with a treat. Also, I feed about 3/4 of a cup of grain 3-4 days a week to 6 laying hens and a rooster.

 

[HEChicken]

Scratch is really a treat and should not comprise a great percentage of their overall diet. I've heard the old wives tale about overheating too, but I think that is all it is. I have 6 adult hens in my flock and I give them one handful of scratch about once a week, thrown out for them to scratch through. Just that one handful keeps them busy for quite awhile.

 

[Imp]

I agree with HEChicken. Scratch is a treat and the recipe varies.
I just give a small handfull to mine. I do throw it in a mossy area of the lawn, so they will scratch up the moss.

Imp- Yes my hens are expected to work for scratch.

 

[teach1rusl]

Mine get a handful of scratch daily, between five birds. I sprinkle it about to get them out and going so that I can clean. In winter I do give them a bit more, twice a day, mostly because they're more bored, and it gives them something to scratch about for and incentive to get their butts out of the coop (mine don't like cold weather...lol...especially snow).
I think of it like candy bars and people; as long as you're eating fairly good stuff most of the time, a candy bar a day is not going to hurt you, and you enjoy it. But if you were eating several candy bars a day, your body will eventually pay the price.
I do give mine sunflower seeds more often, because of the protein. I figure it helps w/eggs, whereas scratch is more like empty calories.

 

[Sunny Side Up]

Scratch, grains, or even cracked corn is a great training aid to teach your chickens to come when you signal. I rattle some in a metal can & call Heeerrrreee chik-chik-chik! and they have learned to come at a run. It's really helpful when they've gotten out of their pen & need to be summoned back in a hurry.

But I agree with the others, just a little is sufficient, and shouldn't cause harm, and why not get the chickens to scratch up a weedy patch while they're at it?