When do they need grit?

[SanClementeChick]

I got my new babies 2 days ago. Ginger (Buff Orpington), Maryanne (Australorpe), Mrs Howell (Legghorn) and Betty (Barred Rock). They are all doing great so far. When do you start adding grit to the feed, and how much do you add? Or is it in a separate dish?
Thanks for the help! Im a first time Mom.

 

[BearSwampChick]

The chick starter already has grit in it. You don't need to supplement.

Welcome!

Susan

 

[SanClementeChick]

Thanks!
I have the girls in a plastic swimming pool as the brooder. I have pine shavings covered with paper towel to prevent them from eating the shavings. Do you know how long I need to use the paper towel?
Thanks Again for the chicken wisdom!

 

[BearSwampChick]

Just a couple of days until they figure out what their food is supposed to be. Sounds like you're doing fine. Aren't they fun to watch? I couldn't get anything done the first couple of weeks! They're out in the coop now, so it makes it a little easier to get my work done. Now if I could just stay off here!

 

[gritsar]

You don't need to worry about adding the grit until you start supplementing their diet with treats, if you plan to.
Welcome to the BYC forum.

 

[Barnyard Dawg]

We have sand in the chicks pen so we don't feed any grit.

 

[SanClementeChick]

Thanks Again for the info. I took the paper towel off tonight to change it and they all started scratching up a storm and flinging pine shavings on one another. It reminded me of kids in the first snow fall! They were hilarious! It took me 2 years to convince my Husband that Chickens were cool pets. He is fussing over them more than I am!
Happy New Chicken Mom
Susan

 

[BearSwampChick]

Wait till they start dust bathing in the shavings. Now that's fun to watch!

Hey, another Susan! I think there are quite a few of us on here! All Susans check in!

The Ohio Susan