What to feed my free loaders

[Irmasmom]

So, I have about 21 free loading hens this year, most of them turned 3 in feb and since the winter I get anywhere from 5-9 eggs a day!! Can I switch them to a cheaper feed at this point? They are no longer earning their keep but i am too attached to send them to chicken heaven. Any thoughts?

 

[ChickNanny13]

What are you feeding now?

 

[Soy Milano]

I would not switch them to a cheaper feed. Chicken feed is at high risk for contamination with mycotoxins, especially the cheap feeds.

 

[Irmasmom]

What are you feeding now?

Laying crumble

 

[Irmasmom]

I would not switch them to a cheaper feed. Chicken feed is at high risk for contamination with mycotoxins, especially the cheap feeds.

I’m not meaning price point but more like can they eat scratch grain vs laying feed or an alternative that’s less than laying feed

 

[21hens-incharge]

Scratch is not nutritionally complete.

You can use an all flock feed or chick grower feed as your non laying birds don't need the extra calcium in later feed.

Keep oyster shell in a dish for those that do need it.

 

[ChickNanny13]

Agree with @21hens-incharge ... I stopped feeding layer couple years ago. Switched over to Flock Raiser adding Oyster Shells in a separate dish for the girls. Haven't had a problem with eggs nor shells.

 

[FowlWitch]

Do you have a tractor supply near you? Dumore layer's pellets are under $20 for a 50lb bag

 

[ChickNanny13]

I've used Dumor & did not like the results Research the forums as to others that have used it and experienced the same results I did - Stinky, soft, dark poop that attracted flies. It was less costly, the girls ate it but the smell in their house got horrible. Once I switched to FR, their poop got "nice", no flies and even noticed they looked healthier. Try a small bag and see how it works for you. Like everything/everyone we all differ.

 

[Ena scott]

I have yet to get my chickens but saw a question on apples. What can be done with unripe apples? Answer: make pectin for jelly and jam.