Hen Feeding Information for every Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Information for every Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Blog Article
Raising healthier chickens commences with appropriate nutrition. Feeding your flock the ideal food plan at Each individual stage of life is important for development, egg production, and Total nicely-remaining. Irrespective of whether you are boosting chicks, pullets, or adult hens, being familiar with their modifying nutritional needs aids ensure a happy and effective flock. This hen feeding guidebook walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day 1 to their golden laying decades.
1. Starter Feed (0–6 Weeks Outdated)
The first couple months of a chick’s existence are important. Throughout this period, chicks call for superior-protein starter feed to assistance speedy expansion and enhancement. Most starter feeds include 18–20% protein, along with the proper harmony of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (a lot easier for very small beaks to take in)
Supplements: Grit is pointless if feeding only industrial starter feed.
Tip: Steer clear of giving treats as well early—starter feed needs to be their sole diet program to be sure balanced nutrition.
two. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Aged)
As chicks mature into pullets (teenage chickens), their food plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little decreased protein information, commonly fifteen–17%, and less calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney challenges in younger birds.
Goal: Supports regular growth without the need of encouraging untimely laying.
Type: Crumbles or pellets.
Nutritional supplements: Grit when you introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Steer clear of layer feed until they begin laying, as higher calcium concentrations can damage developing organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Weeks / First Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s QH88 time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed incorporates about 16% protein and the next degree of calcium to aid eggshell formation.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Present oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for extra calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens like crumbles above pellets—notice your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
When you’re raising chickens for meat, your feeding method differs. Broilers have to have a higher-protein, Electricity-dense feed to support speedy pounds get.
Starter (0–three weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (3 weeks to reap): eighteen–twenty% protein.
Idea: Monitor feed very carefully—overfeeding may result in leg issues or heart issues.
5. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, moderately)
Treats generally is a terrific supplement in your chickens’ diet regime, but they ought to make up not more than 10% of day-to-day consumption. Offer you nutritious selections like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: In the event your flock eats full grains or roughage, deliver grit to help digestion.
Closing Recommendations
Generally present clear, clean drinking water—it’s much more essential than feed.
Store feed properly to stay away from mould and pests.
Alter feed portions based on flock sizing and age.
Feeding chickens effectively at Every single daily life stage makes sure a thriving flock, better egg output, and less health issues. With the ideal diet regime, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and maybe some clucks of appreciation!