⠀ Winter feeding

[Trish44]

What is the best feed for winter in a cold climate? Should I add black oil sunflower seeds to supplement protein?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

The same as in summer. BOSS will help with heat but doesn't up the protein unless it's hulled or meal.
Extra protein in winter isn't really necessary. Extra energy is. BOSS, wheat, barley and corn as scratch helps.

 

[jlf1]

what do you mean by "extra energy"?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Sugars, carbs in most grains will warm up the body during digestion. Carbs provide energy.

 

[jlf1]

So essentially I am not messing up......I have 10 hens (2 of which are molting now, poor things). I give them Layena and also throw out scratch in the morning and a little at night......and a few treats a week......

 

[ChickenCanoe]

You're not messing up. In winter, I prefer to give the scratch grains in the late afternoon/evening. That way they eat the nutritious chicken feed all day and get an energy/heat boost that will warm them while they're on the roost at night.

 

[jlf1]

Thank you so much for the advice! Obviously I am still in learning mode!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

The main thing is not to worry. It's hard to mess up as long as they get good food, clean water and good ventilation.