This is probably a stupid question, but...

[ChickenCharmer]

I used to feed my chickens fixed rations 3X a day. I now keep their food in a large feeder and they eat as much as they want. Will they lay more eggs if they eat their fill from the feeder rather than getting a fixed ration? Or would it make no difference in egg yields?

 

[faykokoWV]

I'm not sure, but it seems like
more food= more energy=better health=more eggs??

I think laying rate is pretty breed dependent to start with, but there are a lot of factors that go into it and it seems like more food might be one of them.

 

[Mahonri]

I keep feed available 24/7 and then sprinkle feed in the run besides.


I've got 3 hens laying at present... 6 that should be and aren't. I'm still waiting on 4 ameraucanas, my speckled sussex and my GCmaran.

 

[chik magnet]

I heard that Americanas are bad layers.

 

[shadow2008]

I don't know if this is true or not, but someone who had decent layers told me to always "free choice" feed and never run out of water and they should lay well. Take it for what its worth. I did notice when I had some kids helping me feed and feed/water ran out egg production dwindled.

Karen

 

[Big Chicken Little]

For their health and well being give feed free choice 24/7 along with water ...no need to ration any food as they will eat what they want ...unlike goats