Start mixing in layer feed?

[Peckasso]

I have 12 pullets that will be 18 weeks old in 2 days. The breeds are Australorp, Buff Orpington, Americana, and Wellsummer. I got my first egg 2 days ago from one of the Americanas and another egg today. Probably the same bird, but I'm not sure which one it is. Should I start mixing in layer feed for all of the girls, or would it be better to offer oyster shell free choice until all or most are laying? Thank you for your help!

 

[nuthatched]

What are they eating now? Yes, I'd start mixing in a higher protein layer sine they're not full grown yet

 

[Folly's place]

Add that separate dish of oyster shell, and consider staying with an unmedicated chick feed or an all flock feed, more in the 20% protein range. Most layer feeds are 16% protein, too low for growing birds, and for many birds generally.
Mary

 

[K0k0shka]

You don't have to use layer feed, ever. As Mary pointed out, most layer feeds aren't optimal, they just barely cover the minimum (they were meant to be cost-efficient for commercial hens that live about 2 years, not to support long and healthy backyard lives). Your chickens would be better off on a 20% protein non-layer feed (starter or all flock), with a separate bowl of calcium on the side (crushed oyster shell or eggshell). Then you won't have to worry about who's laying and who isn't and what they are eating. Chickens' calcium needs vary throughout the year and their lives, so feeding them a forced flat ratio of calcium all the time isn't good for them in the long run.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Exactly! I usually have a mixed flock of layers and non-layers, so I don't want to offer a formula high in calcium, like a layer feed, to those who don't need it. With oyster shell always available on the side, those who do need it will help themselves, while non-layers will ignore it. So old or young birds not laying, molting birds and males will give it a pass. Too much calcium can be very hard on the organs of those that don't need it.