When to switch feed???

[pmpkinchick]

Sorry, I know this question is asked a lot but I'm switching from purina to poulin grains. So, my question is what feed is best? I have 14 wk ee's and 6 wk australorps. Around here they don't carry grower feed. I have been told different things from the different grain places. One said I can use layer now for older and chick feed for younger. The other said chick feed until 22 wks then layer. I just don't want to give them something that isn't right. Any opinions would help. PS no eggs yet, some said 16-20 wks to lay others say 26 wks!! I'm a new chick mom and am very confused

 

[Ridgerunner]

The reason you are confused is that there is no one right answer that fits everybody. A lot of different things work and people have a tendency to think what they do is the only right way. That comes across in their writing and advice. Some chickens start laying as young as 16 weeks. Some wait a whole lot later than 22 weeks. When they start to lay, they need extra calcium for the egg shells. Go by when they start to lay, not by a calendar. With that age difference offer oyster shell on the side for the calcium instead of switching to Layer.

I don’t know what feeds are available for you so I can’t make any real suggestions based on what is available to you. Personally I’d be happy feeding all of them at those ages anything between 15% and 20% protein content and offering oyster shell on the side for the calcium when they need it, but mine forage a fair amount so percent protein in the feed I give them is not all that important. If all your seat is the prepared chicken feed you give them, it becomes a little more important. If you give them specific treats that are low in protein, they may need a higher protein feed. If you give them treats that are high in protein, a lower protein feed may be in order.

In spite or a lot of what you read on here or hear from others at the feed store, we all have different conditions so different answers apply.

 

[pmpkinchick]

Thank you. Mine do get lots of fruit and veggies, also they have a large run with vegitation and bugs. I guess I will keep them on starter for now and get some oyster shell if they choose to eat it. I just want what's best for them. If I start layer too soon will it hurt them??? Thanks