What age for poultry grit and oyster shell?

[TERRY4]

I was told yesterday that I can now change my pullets to regular grit {they've been on chick grit} & oyster shell? They're 3 months now. Is it ok to change them over to it?

I was told another reason to change them now is, that they're a big breed chicken {barred rock & rhode island red} and they need the calcium NOW so they don't get large and break their legs??

Thank you.

 

[nova022]

Regular grit should be fine but I would wait until they are 18 weeks before starting them on oyster shell. Too much calcium is hard on them until they are ready to start producing eggs.

 

[TERRY4]

Regular grit should be fine but I would wait until they are 18 weeks before starting them on oyster shell. Too much calcium is hard on them until they are ready to start producing eggs.

Ok. Thanks.

 

[Spikes Chooks]

Agree, 18 weeks at they very earliest. Many people wait until the first egg has been laid. If they are showing signs of laying (exploring the nesting box; squatting; really red combs and wattles) then they are close and you could add it. But leave it for a little if there are no signs yet.

It is common for a new layer to lay a few with thin shells - even no shells at all. It is not necessarily a sign they lack calcium, just that their bodies are only just working out what to do - and in what order. So don't worry too much if this happens.

I asked such a similar question last year and was more relaxed to hear it was best to wait till 18 weeks + and/or laying signs being exhibited. Too much calcium too young is not good for them at all.

Best of luck!

 

[Eggcessive]

Chickens do not need (and it can be harmful to their kidneys) until they are laying eggs. Different breeds start laying at 16 wekks, most after 20 weeks, and some not until 30 weeks. Just wait until you see an egg before supplimenting calcium. Many people just collect the egg shells, and dry them for a day or two ( or in an oven at 250 degrees for 10 minutes,) crush them and feed them back. I keep mine collected in a plastic bag and feed them as a treat.