sea shells as a calcium supplement

[bush]

I have seen posts recommending oyster shell as a calcium supplement could any type of sea shell be used as well? Thank you in advance for your replies. Bush

 

[falconertomt]

Interesting thought. I think the main reason that they use oyster is A: the calcium content, and B: readily available (because of food farming). I am guessing you have a supply of other shells readily available?

You may be able to get a local lab to test for calcium content. You will also want to be careful about contaminants that may be on the shells, you will want to clean them carefully and probably sterilize them prior to crushing.

Oyster is not so expensive that I would look for alternate options (they do not consume a lot of it). Otherwise in theory it would work.

 

[luvburds]

Speaking of calcium, I'm using a good layer feed from Southern States, I think it's good. It's about all I can find. When I put out oyster shell or ground and baked egg shell my girls run for it and gobble it up. Can they get too much calcium or are they showing me that they need the extra calcium? I've read that by adding it as a side they would only take what they need.

 

[falconertomt]

Generally speaking they will only take what they need. Eating disorders can occur, but are usually tied to other issues. Depending on the amount of calcium in the food, as well as the quality of the supplement, and their individual needs, their consumption will vary. You will see it rise during laying times, and drop off as laying decreases. If your food is low calcium, then they will nee more supplement, if your supplement is less rich, they will need more.

Unless you are going through it in huge quantities of supplement, I would not worry about it.

 

[luvburds]

That's good news I was worried a bit, thanks.

 

[Ironsun10]

Hi,

Oyster shell is ok to give your birds as a calcium source, as it will remain in the gizzard and slowly dissolve making any calcium available for the birds to use.

The calcium in food mainly is finely crushed limestone, this dissolves faster in the birds gut.

Ironsun.