Switching to layer feed

[rosemarythyme]

To answer strictly the question of if there needs to be a transition period, most likely you can swap over without transitioning - many birds will dig through feeders to find the feed they're used to, so by switching over 100% that removes incentive to dig for feed.

Depending on your flock make up and goals for keeping chickens, that's where you want to consider if you want to transition at all, but you've gotten plenty of advice on that front already.

 

[K0k0shka]

Another vote against transitioning. Chickens know best how much calcium they need, and when. Unlike other nutrients like vitamins, protein etc., calcium is a very variable need. There are times in their lives or throughout the year when they need more, other times when they need a lot less. So giving them a flat rate is not ideal. Let them choose. Flock raiser/grower/starter etc. around 20% protein with calcium on the side is best. That's what I do. I've never used layer feed.