What's the best feed for these chicken breeds?

[cp2894_]

Here's the DuMor 20% Non Medicated Starter/Grower side by side with the Purina Flock Raiser (All Flock) - so you can see what I'm talking about in terms of comparing labels.

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Wow very similar. Thanks for sharing that!

 

[Happy Novogens]

Jumping in this conversation... The Purina Flock Raiser being recommended, I'm seeing it as crumbles and as pellets. Which is suggested? What are the benefits of each of those sizes?

[For background, I'm looking for something to feed 2 or 3 buff orpington hens (layers) -- don't have them yet.]

 

[U_Stormcrow]

Jumping in this conversation... The Purina Flock Raiser being recommended, I'm seeing it as crumbles and as pellets. Which is suggested? What are the benefits of each of those sizes?

[For background, I'm looking for something to feed 2 or 3 buff orpington hens (layers) -- don't have them yet.]

Pellet produces less waste, as the birds are more likely to find and eat spilled food. Also, it works better in some feeders. In theory, it also stays fresh marginally longer - but not that much marginally, due to larger volume per surface area slowing oxidization.

Crumble, of course, is small enough to be consumed by hatchlings, works better in a few feeder designs, is much more readily prepared as an oatmeal-like consistency wet mash (popular with some of us), and is sometimes cheaper, as it doesn't require an additional milling operation. But only sometimes, as some mills mix, grind, and pellet all in one continuous operation.

 

[Happy Novogens]

Gotcha. Thanks.

So, if I'm understanding correctly, the crumble can be used at any age/size, while the pellets are for a chicken ____ age?

Or perhaps I'd still need starter crumble before this crumble from _______(age) til _____?

 

[Happy Novogens]

Also, with the Purina Flock Raiser, is that complete or should their be supplemental feeding of "flock block" or fodder or veggie scraps?

 

[U_Stormcrow]

DO NOT offer "Flock Block" - its basically Scratch, only without the ability to control how much treat they eat. Really mess up a complete diet. You can offer veggie scraps, thin layers of cut grasses, and other things to encourage scratching behaviors. Or you can simply throw a bit of food - they think that's a treat too. or make oatmeal out of it - they think that's a treat, too.

Flock Raiser is Complete. It may be a bit low on niacin for some breeds of hatchling ducks, but for chickens, its got you covered.

Yes, crumble any age.