- What do I feed Baby Chicks?
Baby chicks should be started on a specifically designed poultry starter feed like Purina’s Start N Grow or Flock Raiser. Both products are All-Natural and designed especially for baby chickens and other poultry.
- How long do baby chicks eat the starter food?
Your baby chicks should be on starter food until they start laying eggs. This is usually around 5-6 months old.
- What do I feed after the Start N Grow?
Chickens should be fed a feed designed specifically for chickens like Purina’s Layena Pellets and Crumbles. They are both all-natural and specifically designed for grown, egg laying chickens. Laying rations typically include extra calcium for stronger shells.
- Can’t I just feed my chickens Hen Scratch?
Hen Scratch is kind of like a treat for your chickens and should be no more than 20% of their diet. It does not have enough protein and does not have any additional vitamins or minerals added to it.
- How much do I feed my baby chicks?
It is best to make sure your feeders are full at all times. You should also make sure they have access to clean, fresh water.
- When will my chickens start laying eggs?
They should start laying when they are about 5-6 months old.
- Will my chickens lay eggs even though I don’t have a rooster?
Yes. Your hens will lay eggs, they just won’t be fertile.
- How many eggs do chickens lay?
During their most productive time most hens will usually lay 1 egg a day. Production usually slows down in the winter and with age.
- How much space do chickens need?
From hatch to 6 weeks old: 2-3 square feet per chick.
6 weeks & older: 6-10 square feet per chick.
- Do I need a special cage for baby chicks?
Baby chicks can be housed in a variety of structures. The area should be warm, dry, and well ventilated, but not drafty. You can use a commercially available brooder or even a sturdy cardboard box or plastic tub. You will need to have a heat light available for them but make sure they are able to get out from under it if they get too warm.