Switching Feed?

[chickenlove13]

My chicks are eight weeks old and have been fed chicker starter feed up until this point. When do I need to switch feeds and what would the name of the new type of feed be? Thanks!!!!

 

[Gonzo]

Hi There!

You'll want to switch to layer pellets or crumble as soon as they lay they're first eggs. There's all different brands. I use Nutrena, its good... but its not "the brand to have" persay. I'd see what your feedstore recommends!

 

[kathyinmo]

You can use "starter/grower," until they are at point of lay or around 20 weeks. If they lay before that (I had production reds that started at 16 weeks), that is when you will want to start Layer feed. It is also wise to have free choice oyster shell for your layers at all times, once they begin laying. I just use a little 2 sided kitty feed dish, with grit in one side and oyster shell in the other.

I don't know what brands you have available, so the names may be different. An example is:
Purina Start and Grow ... for chicks until they are at POL (point of lay) 16 - 20 weeks.
Purina Layena ... for your chickens that lay eggs.
Purina Flock Raiser ... Can be used for all ages, but it lacks calcium for the layers and you need to be sure they have Oyster Shells at all times

 

[Wizbop]

Our chicks are the same age!!