Hen Feeds

Choosing hen feeds starts with your flock’s age, laying stage and daily nutritional needs. A complete layer feed is formulated to give laying hens the protein, energy, vitamins and minerals they need, including calcium for eggshell formation. Many layer feeds contain around 16% to 18% protein, though the right choice depends on the feeding directions and your birds’ needs. Growing pullets need a starter or grower ration rather than the higher calcium levels found in layer feed, so check the label before making a switch as egg laying approaches. Chicken feed comes in several common forms, including pellets, crumbles and mash. Pellets can help limit scattered feed, while crumbles offer smaller bites; the best fit depends on what your hens eat readily and what works with your feeder. For a flock that includes roosters or younger birds, ask a poultry nutrition professional about an all-flock ration with a separate calcium source available to laying hens. A steady feeding routine helps your hens get the most from their daily ration. Keep complete hen feed available according to the package directions, and provide plenty of fresh, clean water, especially during hot weather. Scratch grains, kitchen scraps and other treats should make up no more than about 10% of a chicken’s daily diet so they do not crowd out nutrients from balanced poultry feed. Hens that roam the yard still need a complete ration because the insects and greens they find change with the season. Store chicken feed in a dry, covered container away from rodents, and clean feeders regularly to keep damp or spoiled feed out of the coop. Offer appropriately sized insoluble grit if your birds eat grains or forage beyond their complete feed, following the grit label’s directions. Keep an eye on appetite, body condition and eggshell strength, and check with a veterinarian if laying drops suddenly or birds show signs of illness.