If you’re raising chickens for eggs, you’ve probably heard about layer feed. But why is it so important? Laying hens have unique nutritional needs that must be met in order for them to produce eggs consistently and stay healthy.
This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of feeds for layers, including the different types available, the essential nutrients they contain, and effective feeding strategies.
It’s important to remember that a chicken’s nutritional needs change as it grows. What a chick needs is different from what a pullet needs, and both are different from what a laying hen requires. We’ll break it all down for you.
The Importance of Age-Appropriate Poultry Feed
Just like human babies, chicks and hens need specific nutrients at various stages of their lives. Here’s a quick rundown of the types of feed your birds need as they grow.
Starter Feed for Baby Chicks: 0-8 Weeks Old
Baby chicks need a high-protein feed to support their rapid growth and development. Chick starter crumbles typically contain around 20% protein to fuel tissue and bone development.
The small particle size of chick starter crumble makes it easier for tiny beaks to eat and digest.
Grower Feed for Pullets: 8-16 Weeks Old
Once your chicks reach 8 weeks old, they’re considered pullets and are ready for grower feed. This feed has less protein than starter feed, usually around 16%, to support balanced growth and bone development as the pullets prepare to lay eggs.
Calcium levels in grower feed are carefully controlled to avoid damaging the pullet’s kidneys.
Layer Feed for Hens: 16+ Weeks
When your pullets reach laying age (around 16 weeks), it’s time to switch to layer feed. Layer feed is high in calcium to support eggshell formation and contains balanced levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals for optimal egg production and hen health.
Layer feed is formulated to keep your hens laying consistently and maintain their overall well-being.
Key Nutrients for Laying Hens
If you want healthy hens and nutritious eggs, make sure your layers are getting the right balance of nutrients in their feed. Here are some of the most important ingredients in layer feed:
Protein: Essential for Egg Production and Overall Health
Layer feed typically has a protein content of 16 to 20%. That protein is key for egg formation, feather growth, and a healthy immune system. Protein builds and repairs body tissues, keeping your hens in tip-top shape.
Calcium: Crucial for Strong Eggshells
Layer feed is packed with calcium to meet the demands of eggshell production. Without enough calcium, eggshells can be thin or weak. Calcium also plays a vital role in your hens’ bone health. They can deplete their calcium reserves if their feed isn’t adequately supplemented.
Vitamins and Minerals: Supporting Overall Health and Egg Quality
Vitamin D3 helps hens absorb calcium, so it’s essential for proper calcium usage. Other important vitamins and minerals include Vitamin E, B vitamins, phosphorus, and trace minerals. These nutrients boost egg quality, immune function, and overall health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Enhancing Egg Nutritional Value
Some layer feeds are supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve the nutritional content of the eggs. This is a win-win, as it benefits both hen health and provides health benefits to the people who eat the eggs.
Prebiotics and Probiotics: Supporting Gut Health
Prebiotics and probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, which improves nutrient absorption and immune function. A healthy gut enhances digestion and overall well-being in your flock.
Types of Layer Feed
When it comes to layer feed, you’ve got a few different options to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons.
Layer Pellets: Convenient and Balanced
Layer pellets are a popular choice because they offer a consistent nutrient profile in every bite. This means your hens are less likely to pick and choose, ensuring they get a balanced diet. Plus, pellets are easy to handle and store, making them a less messy option than mash. Think of something like “Premium High Protein Layer Pellet” as a good example.
Layer Crumble: Versatile and Palatable
Layer crumble has a smaller particle size than pellets, which can make it easier for some hens to eat. If you’ve got birds with smaller beaks or hens that just prefer a finer texture, crumble might be a good fit. Just be aware that it can be a little more prone to waste compared to pellets.
Layer Mash: Traditional and Customizable
Layer mash is a ground feed that you can easily mix with other ingredients. This gives you the flexibility to customize your hens’ diet and supplement it with extra nutrients. However, mash can be messier than pellets or crumble, and it requires careful storage to prevent spoilage. “Premium Classic Layer Mash” is one example of this type of feed.
Poultry Scratch & Other Treats
Treats should only make up a small percentage of your chickens’ diet—no more than 10 percent. If you give your flock too many treats, they won’t get enough nutrients from their layer feed.
Scratch grains can give your hens extra energy and encourage them to forage. Scratch keeps chickens active and entertained, which is always a plus.
When you offer treats, do so in moderation and think about their nutritional value. Fruits, veggies, and mealworms are great options. Also, make sure your chickens have access to grit, which helps them digest their food properly. Chick grit helps grind food in the gizzard.
Conclusion
To keep your hens healthy and productive, be sure to give them the right feed for their age, and keep an eye on their health. If you see signs of a vitamin deficiency or other problems, adjust their diet as needed.
It’s always a good idea to talk with a local poultry expert if you have questions about feeding your hens.