when to start oyster supplement?

[cluckiemama]

The coop is finally ready! We have 3 Barred Rock and 3 Austrolorp hens - they are 8 weeks old. I've given them a few "treats" banana, strawberry and melon and sprinkled on grit.
Should I start oyster now or wait till they start laying?
I can't wait to get them outside!
Thanks for all the advice and help!

 

[4-H chicken mom]

and

from Ohio. So glad you joined. Wait til they get closer to laying age.

 

[dieselgrl48]

It's best to wait to supplement hens with laying feed or oyster shell's until they actualy start laying egg's.If they are in a pen and dont have acess to a run outside it doesn't hurt to add a bit of fine grit into their food.That help's their natural digestive process. Layer feed can actualy damage chick and non laying bird's internal organ's.

 

[Backyard Hencam]

Welcome from California. Sounds like you got your answer: start oyster shells when it's about time for your hens to lay! The time will be here very soon! Good luck!

 

[b.hromada]

and

from S. Florida! Glad you joined us!

 

[sgtmom52]

From PA!

 

[Cindiloohoo]

I usually start mine on oyster shell around 14 weeks and give it free choice. If they don't need it they won't eat it.

 

[Tuffoldhen]

Oyster shell is offered at Point of Lay or after they begin laying.

 

[NWChicks]

from WA!