waiting for the first eggs

[jay873]

They don't need to replenish the calcium that is stored in their bones until after they have been producing eggs for a few weeks. The lower protein content of layer feed is what can slow down their development. Some breeds, like Easter Eggers in particular, need to be kept on a higher protein diet to be productive.

oh okay makes sense so if you had both layer and grower at the same time it should be fine right ?

 

[COCOmaran]

As long as they are getting at least 18% protein, it's fine. Check the labels. Some grower feeds are formulated for meat birds and are only 15%.

I mixed 16% and 18%. So my chicks are getting little less than 18% of protein. But, I hope the additional eggs and sunflower seeds help ...

 

[junebuggena]

I mixed 16% and 18%. So my chicks are getting little less than 18% of protein. But, I hope the additional eggs and sunflower seeds help ...

Sunflower seeds are high calorie. Too many will cause fat build up, and that may cause some issues once they are ready to lay. Stick with plain grower feed.

 

[junebuggena]

oh okay makes sense so if you had both layer and grower at the same time it should be fine right ?

Depends on the protein content of both feeds.

 

[COCOmaran]

Sunflower seeds are high calorie. Too many will cause fat build up, and that may cause some issues once they are ready to lay. Stick with plain grower feed.

By accident, I have to feed them mix of 16 and 18%. Is there any way I can help them ??

 

[jay873]

Well it's for Turkey's so I'm sure it's high but thanks for the info so I should be fine thanks!

 

[junebuggena]

Well it's for Turkey's so I'm sure it's high but thanks for the info so I should be fine thanks!

Yes, the high protein content of the turkey feed will offset the lower protein of the layer feed.

 

[junebuggena]

By accident, I have to feed them mix of 16 and 18%. Is there any way I can help them ??

Finish up the mix and then only purchase the grower till they are all laying.

 

[Angela Thomson]

I didn't think I would get any eggs until spring. Two weeks ago December 11th I got three eggs! I have since been getting one or two a day but yesterday I got four! I make my chickens "cakes". Whatever leftovers I have I add eggs and oats to and bake it. They love it! They are still on crumble/pellets and they get scratch thrown into the run.

 

[COCOmaran]

I didn't think I would get any eggs until spring. Two weeks ago December 11th I got three eggs! I have since been getting one or two a day but yesterday I got four! I make my chickens "cakes". Whatever leftovers I have I add eggs and oats to and bake it. They love it! They are still on crumble/pellets and they get scratch thrown into the run.

Congratulations! Did you add extra light to help them lay?