When to add oyster shell

[bp11chickens]

My girls are almost 18 weeks and I will be switching them over to Dumor layer feed when they hit 18. When do you start to add oyster shell? do you mix it in with the food, or put it in a separate container?

 

[sn0wwhite]

Oh, good questions! I'm posting to subscribe.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Most folks offer it in a separate bowl.

 

[bp11chickens]

When should I open up the nesting boxes? I have them closed off so they don't think of them as anything other than nesting boxes.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Depends on the breed. If I know the pullets are likely to start laying at 20 weeks, I'll give them access at 19.5 weeks. LOL

If they aren't likely to start until 36 weeks, there is lots and lots of time.