when do you transition to layer feed?

[Barbara Lember]

Typically you want to start to transitioning your hen at about 18 weeks old because at that age typically their reproductive system is working on making an egg so the hen will crave a higher calcium feed (layer feed is made specially for laying hens and has the extra supplements they need at this stage. Also very important to offer.oyster shell (Offer in separate container) so she can produce an egg that is strong and healthy. I would suggest not just switching from the grower feed to layer feed, but make it about a week of mixing together and then each day a bit less grower and a bit more layer until it's just layer feed. Also, please bear in mind that chickens aren't meant to eat soy. We feed organic soy and corn free layer feed along with veggies, (ck chart for what vegies chickens can eat.)watermelon, sprouted grain bread, and sometimes a piece of cooked corn on cob.(they love) for snacks. and we get perfect healthy eggs. and have happy chickens. The two babies laying in mychair are Gracie and Ginger, the two newest to the family. Ginger a Buff Orpington and Gracie a Blue Laced Red Wyndotte. I must say after havin g many different breeds, the Buff Orpington is the calmest, and most friendly sweetest bird I ever had.

The avian vet said to start transitioning around 16 18 weeks. I think we transitioned at 18 weeks with our Reds

 

[rlhagan56]

Hey everyone! Y’all are not reading my entire post! I am also posting about layer feed, and grains, and oyster shell as well as grit. I am speaking about feeding chickens - our laying hens- in general. I am not breaking feeding laying hens down into chicks, pullets, older hens, etc. all flock. I am just speaking about feeding chickens to keep them from starving having adequate nutrition. I am not knocking your feeding protocols whether you are using feed for those actually laying, in molt, roosters, old hens, chicks, or those with purple ears and three eyes, just was laying hens to produce eggs for you that need food and fed. I was generally speaking about being sure to care for those who provide something for us. I think I offended the very people on here who are at the top of their game on chicken care and are some experts on chicken health and feeding guidelines. That was not in the least what my intent was. Please read the entire post and my apologies to you all.

Uhm I'm confused. Just telling how some of my chickens act eating. I also don't know anyone with an avian vet. I've never had any die, or get ill, I just have difficulties that are aggravating with some of my flocks over the years. These little brats throw the oyster shell on the floor. Egg quality if fine. I was not correcting anyone or offended by anyone.

 

[Ohchickfarming]

my local royal king sells it for 10.99 a bag