What do you feed your layers? I was going to do a poll but couldn't quite figgure it out... 1. Layer crumbles? 2. Layer pellets? 3. Scratch/grains? 4. Table scraps?
I just started using pellets because the crumbles looked too much like the bottom of the chicken coop, and when they start digging and shooting dirt everywhere, it all looks the same. As you said, "too much waste". Problem is they don't seem to like the pellets as much as the crumble. I'd assume they will adjust to it sooner or later. We also toss them a little scratch every morning as well.
I've been using layer crumbles, but I think I'm going to start feeding them layer pellets. Less waste, just hope my bantams can eat them. I also feed them scratch, bird seed, oyster shell, grit, plenty of green things and yes yummy human food.
Container 1:Layer pellets. Not crumbles because they spill less with the pellets. Container 2:Waterfowl feed because I have ducks not chickens. Container 3:Oyster shell for nice hard shells. Container 4:Grit for good digestion. and a little bit of BOSS (black oil sunflower seeds), sprinkled on the food or ground because its good for the birds and the birds love them. and a sprinkle of brewers yeast for extra B vitamins. Fruit and vegetable trimmings I have. (lettuce, tomato, celery, cabbage, etc) (never any avocados or onions) Plus they free range in my yard/garden getting grass, weeds and bugs.
I was able to figure out how to save on my feed bill. I no longer feed commercial layer feed. I feed the following whole oats, whole barley, millet, cracked corn, wheat, BOSS, cooked peas (this is for protein).
This is very similar to what I feed (see my BYC page if interested): millet rolled oats split peas flaxseed unsalted peanuts cracked corn wheat BOSS rolled barley kelp meal for salt oyster shell and grit mixed in Nice to see others feeding the whole grains/seeds too!
Wow - Thanks for the ideas! I might have to look into making my own feed too. With the cost of chicken feed going up up up - that might be the way to go. Anyone else have home made chicken feed recipes? What are the best forms of protein? How about soy?
Quote: Layer mix; Corn, a 38% Mixer Pellet, and Molasses. Breeder Mix; Corn, Wheat, a 38 and 32 percent mixer pellet, Alfalfa Meal, Black Oil Sunflower Seed, and Molasses. Chick Starter; Corn, and a 38% Mixer Pellet all is ground to a meal. Grower; Corn, Oats, a 38 and 32 percent mixer pellet, and Molasses. The best form of protein for chickens is animal proteins, either pork, beef, poultry, or fish and the second best would soy bean meal. Chris
