when to start chickens on layer feed

[chickenmama109]

i have 12 chickens that are 16 weeks old they are on grower feed know but when should i go to layer
befor or after they lay there first egg thanks to all help

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

When they start laying. If you have cockerels or roosters, it would be better to feed an all flock feed.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

If you want to use layer transition no earlier than 18 weeks or wait for them to start laying

 

[21hens-incharge]

I wait until everyone is laying. I still feed out whatever chick feed I have. I keep pacific pearl brand oyster shell in a separate dish. Mine won't touch the other brands.

Make food changes gradual. Mixing a bit of layer feed into the chick feed gradually increasing the layer feed keeps from causing digestive issues.

 

[getaclue]

Wait for them to start laying. Their nutritional needs change in regards to calcium, and protein, when they go from growing, to laying. Once they are laying, you may safely continue feed them all grower feed, or safely transition them all onto the layer feed.

 

[chickenmama109]

thanks every one

 

[KaylorFarms]

I gave mine layer feed at 18 weeks

 

[junebuggena]

I've never fed layer at all. Contrary to popular belief, it is not required. There is no magic ingredient in it. It's just regular feed, with less protein and a whole lot more calcium. I prefer to allow hens to regulate their own calcium intake via crushed oyster shell. I prefer feeding a 20% protein unmedicated starter to offset any low protein treats or forage. I've always got a few chicks or cockerels in the flock so it just makes life much simpler to buy one feed that is safe for everybody.

 

[chickenmama109]

when i do to layer food do i need oyster shell

 

[junebuggena]

when i do to layer food do i need oyster shell

No. Layer feed contains more than enough calcium for actively laying birds.