When to start layer feed??

[chynasparks]

It makes sence that the flock really doesn't need the layer feed. I've also read to start layer feed after you see the first egg. But I'm stool wondering about the rooster (should Millie become Billie). I'm still wondering if a rooster will be harmed if he decides he likes oyster shell.

 

[mpgo4th]

He might peck a few pieces but will not keep eating it. My hens bearly eat any.

 

[ThePinesFarm]

my chicks are now 9 weeks old and ready to join my flock. i feed layer to my flock, will this hurt the chicks?
they have been on starter from birth.

 

[Fred's Hens]

 

[GreenMountainEric]

Duckman 14- I am in the exact same situation! One possible roo, two about 15 weeks and one about 12. I just purchased a 50 lb bag of countryside organics layer feed to start them on (ran out of grower and didn't want to buy another 50lb bag since they should start laying soon). Will the layer feed hurt the (possible) roo? Will a few extra weeks on layer harm the young one? I was told by the man at the feed store that it would be ok, but I am a little bit worried!

my chicks are now 9 weeks old and ready to join my flock. i feed layer to my flock, will this hurt the chicks?
they have been on starter from birth.

Do not feed a layer feed to hens under an absolute minimum of 17 weeks of age. Along with the problems that Freds hens mentioned, they are also VERY likely to develop Rickets.

The problem isn't exactly related to having too much calcium. It is the ratio of calcium, and available phosphorus, that causes the health problems. Younger hens are still developing their skeletal structure, and cal/phos ratios higher than 2/1 (Layer is 8/1) will cause them to develop weak, soft, and flexable bones. This will, in turn, cause them to develop more bone mass, especially in the breast area. I have had customers that started layer too early on several occasions, and a lot of their hens essentially suffocated to death (slowly) because of the lack of room for the lungs to function properly. (Not too mention, a laundry list of other health defects, like the ones fred's hens mentioned)


As was suggested by others, if you want to simplify your feeding for your flock, feed a grower to all, and have oyster shell available for your layers to get. Your younger hens will not eat it, until they need it.

The only other difference in a layer feed, is they are usually higher in Omega 3s, than a grower feed. (A lot higher). If it is not extremely important to have high Omega 3s in your eggs, using a grower is perfectly fine, with free choice oyster shell.