When should we feed our hens oyster shells?

[ASHFarmChickens]

We are owners of 18 RIR chicks around 7 weeks old. When should they start to eat oyster shells to make them better egg layers?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I provide oyster shell (separate container) at about 18 weeks. They'll pick them up when the egg enters the shell gland.

Oyster shell won't make them better layers, it just replaces the medullary bone they use to make the egg shell. Sufficient vitamin D3 and a proper ratio of calcium to phosphorus is important for egg shell quality as well.

Layer feed and oyster shell doesn't affect the number of eggs, it just prevents rickets and thin shells in birds that are actively laying.
Protein will affect egg production.

 

[donrae]

I provide oyster shell (separate container) at about 18 weeks. They'll pick them up when the egg enters the shell gland.

Oyster shell won't make them better layers, it just replaces the medullary bone they use to make the egg shell. Sufficient vitamin D3 and a proper ratio of calcium to phosphorus is important for egg shell quality as well.

Layer feed and oyster shell doesn't affect the number of eggs, it just prevents rickets and thin shells in birds that are actively laying.
Protein will affect egg production.

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