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Post by cks4me on May 14, 2011 13:00:13 GMT -6
I just read that it is not good to feed roosters the layer pellets. I have two roosters each of whom is in separate flocks with hens and so I have just been feeding layer maker. I don't know how I would feed separate feeds. What do most of you guys do? Also at what age do you change protein levels for baby's? I have some baby's at about three weeks and still have on the baby food but in this same article it said that you should move them off the high protein at age two weeks. What are you guys doing? Thanks for input
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Post by chowdownsilkiefarm on May 14, 2011 13:31:24 GMT -6
I mix layer crumbles with scratch grains. They eat what they want.
As far as feeding chicks, I give them chaick starter till they are feathered then mix starter with scratch grains. When they are completely feathered I switch to scratch grains till they are close to laying then I give them scratch grains mixed with layer crumbles.
Mine get some table scraps. Depends on what it is. I don't give them anyhting greasy or citrus fruits.
I don't feed chicks anything except the chick starter. Only those feathered out get the "human food". They also get to free range some during the day.
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Post by Timbo on May 14, 2011 13:56:12 GMT -6
My roosters eat layer and treats and they do great. U can change from starter to starter grower after 4-6 weeks. mine get starter til about 10 to 12 weeks.
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Post by gardendaddy on May 14, 2011 14:21:36 GMT -6
There seems to be some information that roosters do not need the extra calcium that is in the layer feed that is used by hens in shell production. In the roosters it becomes excess and some people "think" it can lead to kidney issues...but this seems to be in VERY RARE instances. Most roosters just pass it on out anyway. The hen's body uses it for egg production. Roosters do well on layer feed and then most anything else they get their "beaks" on as well when foraging, in treats, etc.
Again, it seems it is extremely rare for any rooster to have a problem with the feed or everyone in this group would have sick or otherwise no roosters at all.
Mike
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Post by rinksgi on May 14, 2011 17:28:50 GMT -6
I feed layer to all of my grown chickens. It's 16% protein and the roosters are fine. I feed my chicks starter/grower exclusively until they are about 4 1/2 months old. Then I gradually reduce the chick food and increase layer until by 5 1/2 months,they are on layer. Then they go in with the big chickens. I've have rushed it on occassion,but can really tell a difference between the chicks fed grower longer. They are larger and healthier. I only feed scratch to growing roosters and a hanful or two in the Winter.
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Post by cks4me on May 15, 2011 8:44:10 GMT -6
Thanks everyone I have always fed all grown chicks layer mix and they seemed to be okay just wanted to check with ya'll to make sure I hadn't missed something. Rinksgi how do you introduce the new chicks to the flock? I normally put them in at night, on a weekend so I can watch them.
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Post by rinksgi on May 16, 2011 11:59:39 GMT -6
Normally I put them in late afternoon and keep them all penned for a few weeks. I don't worry too much about them because they are almost 6 months old and my pen has plenty of room for them to get away from bullies.
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