When to start layer feed?

[mechanic57]

When raising a new flock of laying hens, I switch to layer feed when they start doing the mating squat.

 

[Yep I Talk To Chickens]

When raising a new flock of laying hens, I switch to layer feed when they start doing the mating squat.

Ok thanks

 

[Wyandotte Wrangler]

So Im still new to the game but most of the folks I talk to and the majority of what I read says to not feed layer feed until they start to lay. With that said, I've read several on here that say it can be beneficial to start before laying to improve egg shell quality and prepare the birds for laying.

Ive got 9 GLWs and I honestly don't know much about other breeds (another reason why I'm here lol). I know Wyandotte's tend to mature later as most dual purpose breeds do. My birds are 16 weeks and aren't laying. From what I understand they probably wont start till about 6 months. So I've chosen to wait until the eggs start coming to make that switch. Your other breed might lay sooner I don't know. I just don't want to give them too much calcium too soon.

I was feeding starter feed until about 12 weeks and have now switched to grower/broiler feed until they start to lay. So after doing my homework and reading on here, and looking into the recommendations from the company I buy my feed from. so I decided to go that route. Hopefully they will grow some still until they get to laying.

At the end of the day I don't think there is an exact science. listen to the fine folks here, take the recommendations of your feed company, and do what you think is right for your girls.

WW