Hen Feeding Manual for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Hen Feeding Manual for Each Phase: What to Feed Your Flock from Chick to Layer
Blog Article
Elevating nutritious chickens starts with proper nourishment. Feeding your flock the right diet at Every phase of existence is important for progress, egg production, and Total nicely-staying. Irrespective of whether you happen to be boosting chicks, pullets, or adult hens, knowledge their modifying nutritional needs will help be certain a happy and productive flock. This chicken feeding information walks you thru what to feed your birds from working day one to their golden laying several years.
one. Starter Feed (0–six Months Outdated)
The 1st couple months of the chick’s everyday living are crucial. In the course of this period, chicks call for significant-protein starter feed to aid immediate advancement and enhancement. Most starter feeds contain eighteen–20% protein, combined with the correct balance of natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Sort: Crumbles or mash (less complicated for small beaks to eat)
Nutritional supplements: Grit is unneeded if feeding only commercial starter feed.
Idea: Keep away from giving treats much too early—starter feed must be their sole diet plan to ensure balanced diet.
two. Grower Feed (6–18 Months Old)
As chicks increase into pullets (teenage chickens), their diet plan shifts to grower feed. This feed has a little bit reduced protein written content, generally fifteen–seventeen%, and fewer calcium than layer feed to prevent kidney concerns in younger birds.
Reason: Supports continuous growth with out encouraging premature laying.
Form: Crumbles or pellets.
Health supplements: Grit if you introduce grains or treats.
Idea: Stay clear of layer feed till they begin laying, as high calcium levels can hurt acquiring organs.
three. Layer Feed (18+ Months / 1st Egg)
After your pullets lay their very first egg, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This specifically formulated feed is made up of about 16% protein and the next standard of calcium to assist eggshell development.
Sort: Crumbles or pellets.
Dietary supplements: Offer oyster shell or crushed eggshells absolutely free-option for added calcium.
Idea: Some hens choose crumbles over pellets—observe your flock’s choice.
four. Broiler Feed (For Meat Birds)
If you’re elevating chickens for meat, your feeding strategy is different. Broilers require a superior-protein, Vitality-dense feed to guidance rapid fat attain.
Starter (0–three months): 22–24% protein.
Finisher (three months to reap): 18–20% protein.
Tip: Check feed diligently—overfeeding can lead to leg problems or heart problems.
five. Treats QH88 and Scraps (All Ages, carefully)
Treats can be a great supplement towards your chickens’ food plan, but they ought to make up no more than ten% of day by day consumption. Supply wholesome options like leafy greens, oats, cooked rice, or fruits.
Stay clear of: Salty foods, chocolate, avocado, raw beans, or moldy scraps.
Use grit: If your flock eats total grains or roughage, supply grit to help digestion.
Last Strategies
Often deliver clear, fresh new water—it’s additional essential than feed.
Retail outlet feed correctly to stop mould and pests.
Regulate feed parts depending on flock dimensions and age.
Feeding chickens correctly at Each and every lifetime phase makes sure a flourishing flock, improved egg output, and much less health concerns. With the ideal diet, your birds will reward you with eggs, companionship, and perhaps some clucks of appreciation!