What age to limit feed vs. free choice

[PDFarm]

I'm wondering at what age I can begin feeding twice a day rather than leaving the feeder out all the time. I do this with my ducks and it works fine. This is my first time raising chickens. I would rather feed this way because I don't want to attract rodents. I have dual purpose (barred rocks, welsummers, and buff Orpingtons).
Thanks

 

[chfite]

I provide feed all the time. I keep the feed in the coop, so no problems with scavengers.

Chris

 

[RussianChickens]

They should have access to Fresh Feed and Water all the time. Keep in in the coup, I do this hand have not had a problem with varmin.

 

[Critterwoman]

I am having a problem with 2 squirrels getting into the coop and eating the pellets. Any ideas how to deter them?

 

[donrae]

They don't have to have access to feed all the time, many animals do just fine with a twice daily feeding. I'd wait until they're at least a couple of months old and the crop can hold enough to sustain them several hours, and go by their behavior. If they're really starving and don't seem to be getting enough, maybe three times daily for a while longer. But they go all night without eating from hatch (if raised by a broody), so I don't see the problem with going several hours during the day also.

Critterwoman--I don't know about keeping the squirrels out except if a squirrel can get in, so can a predator. I'd say the best option is to re-think your fencing and go with something like hardware cloth.

 

[PDFarm]

Thanks donrae! I'll give them a little more time, then give it it a try. My guys are going to free range when they're older which is another reason I don't think they need the feeder out all the time.

 

[Nicole01]

I have food available 24/7. I free range once their feathered.

We have a very nice feeder my husband built that holds 100lbs of feed.

 

[buckaroogirl]

I usually have feed 24/7. I free range during the day. Sometimes they run out during the day but I don't feed them again till evening