Hen Feeding Guidebook for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Guidebook for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
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Boosting wholesome chickens begins with proper diet. Feeding your flock the correct diet program at Every single phase of daily life is essential for expansion, egg creation, and overall very well-getting. Regardless of whether you might be elevating chicks, pullets, or Grownup hens, knowing their switching nutritional wants allows make certain a contented and productive flock. This rooster feeding guideline walks you through what to feed your birds from day one particular for their golden laying many years.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Old)
The primary couple weeks of a chick’s daily life are significant. In the course of this period, chicks have to have high-protein starter feed to help quick advancement and improvement. Most starter feeds have 18–20% protein, combined with the suitable equilibrium of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Variety: Crumbles or mash (simpler for tiny beaks to consume)
Dietary supplements: Grit is unneeded if feeding only business starter feed.
Suggestion: Keep away from offering treats way too early—starter feed really should be their sole eating plan to guarantee well balanced diet.
2. Grower Feed (six–18 Weeks Outdated)
As chicks increase into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet regime shifts to grower feed. This feed has a bit decrease protein material, normally 15–seventeen%, and less calcium than layer feed to stop kidney issues in youthful birds.
Function: Supports constant growth without encouraging untimely laying.
Type: Crumbles or pellets.
Supplements: Grit for those who introduce grains or treats.
Suggestion: Steer clear of layer feed until they begin laying, as higher calcium levels can damage creating organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Weeks / First Egg)
The moment your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to modify to layer feed. This specially formulated feed incorporates about 16% protein and the next amount of calcium to support eggshell formation.
Variety: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Give oyster shell or crushed eggshells free of charge-option for additional calcium.
Suggestion: Some hens prefer crumbles in excess of pellets—notice your flock’s preference.
4. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
Should you’re increasing chickens for meat, your feeding system differs. Broilers need a large-protein, Strength-dense feed to guidance swift pounds get.
Starter (0–3 weeks): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three weeks to harvest): eighteen–20% protein.
Tip: Monitor feed cautiously—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or coronary heart problems.
five. Treats and Scraps (All Ages, sparsely)
Treats generally is a terrific supplement towards your chickens’ food plan, but they need to make up no more than 10% of every day intake. Supply healthier selections like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, Uncooked beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If the QH88 flock eats full grains or roughage, deliver grit to help digestion.
Closing Recommendations
Generally present cleanse, fresh water—it’s far more important than feed.
Shop feed correctly to avoid mould and pests.
Change feed portions according to flock size and age.
Feeding chickens correctly at each lifestyle stage ensures a flourishing flock, much better egg manufacturing, and fewer health concerns. With the appropriate diet program, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps a number of clucks of appreciation!