“I’m starting a small backyard chicken coop and I’m confused about what to feed my hens. What are the best types of chicken feed to ensure healthy, happy chickens and good egg production?” Thanks a bunch, Emily, Toronto, Canada.
Understanding the Basics of Chicken Feed
Hey Emily! Congratulations on starting your backyard chicken coop in Toronto. It’s fantastic that you’re taking the time to research the best feed options for your feathered friends. Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and productivity of your chickens, so you’re on the right track by asking this question.
Before we dive into the specific types of chicken feed, it’s important to understand that chickens have different nutritional needs at various stages of their lives. The main categories of chicken feed are:
- Starter feed
- Grower feed
- Layer feed
- All-purpose feed
Let’s explore each of these in detail to help you make the best choice for your backyard flock.
Starter Feed: Nourishing Chicks
If you’re starting with baby chicks, Emily, you’ll need to begin with starter feed. This type of feed is specifically formulated for chicks from hatching to about 8 weeks old. Here’s what you need to know about starter feed:
- High in protein (typically 20-24%)
- Finely ground for easy digestion
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for rapid growth
- Often medicated to prevent common chick diseases (though non-medicated options are available)
Starter feed provides the necessary nutrients for healthy bone and feather development in young chicks. It’s crucial to use this type of feed during the early weeks to ensure your chicks grow into strong, healthy hens.
Grower Feed: Supporting Adolescent Chickens
Once your chicks reach about 8 weeks old, it’s time to transition to grower feed. This feed is designed for pullets (young hens) from 8 weeks until they start laying eggs, usually around 18-20 weeks. Here are the key features of grower feed:
- Slightly lower protein content (16-18%)
- Balanced calcium levels to support bone growth without encouraging early egg production
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for continued development
Grower feed helps your pullets develop strong bones, muscles, and feathers without putting stress on their reproductive systems. It’s an important stage in their development, Emily, as it prepares them for their future as productive laying hens.
Layer Feed: Fueling Egg Production
Once your hens start laying eggs, typically around 18-20 weeks old, it’s time to switch to layer feed. This type of feed is formulated to support egg production and maintain the overall health of adult laying hens. Here’s what you should know about layer feed:
- Moderate protein content (16-18%)
- Higher calcium content (around 4%) to support eggshell formation
- Balanced levels of vitamins and minerals to support egg production and overall health
- Often available in pellet, crumble, or mash form
Layer feed is essential for maintaining consistent egg production and ensuring your hens lay eggs with strong shells. The increased calcium content is particularly important, as hens require a significant amount of calcium to produce eggshells.
Pellets vs. Crumbles vs. Mash
Emily, you’ll find that layer feed comes in different forms. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pellets: Compressed feed that reduces waste and prevents selective eating
- Crumbles: Pellets that have been broken down into smaller pieces, easier for some hens to eat
- Mash: Finely ground feed that allows hens to pick out their favorite bits (may lead to nutritional imbalances)
The choice between these forms often comes down to personal preference and what your chickens seem to prefer.
All-Purpose Feed: A Versatile Option
If you have a mixed flock of different ages or don’t want to manage multiple types of feed, all-purpose or complete feed might be a good option. This type of feed is designed to meet the nutritional needs of chickens at various life stages. Here’s what you should know:
- Balanced protein content (usually around 16-17%)
- Moderate calcium levels
- Suitable for most adult chickens, including laying hens
- May not be ideal for very young chicks or high-production laying hens
While all-purpose feed can be convenient, it’s important to note that it may not meet the specific nutritional requirements of chickens at every life stage as effectively as stage-specific feeds.
Organic and Non-GMO Feed Options
Emily, as you’re setting up your backyard coop in Toronto, you might be interested in organic or non-GMO feed options. These types of feed are becoming increasingly popular among backyard chicken keepers. Here’s what you should know:
- Organic Feed: Made from ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
- Non-GMO Feed: Contains ingredients that have not been genetically modified
While these options can be more expensive, some chicken keepers prefer them for environmental or health reasons. It’s worth noting that there’s no scientific evidence suggesting that organic or non-GMO feeds produce healthier chickens or better-quality eggs.
Supplementing Commercial Feed
While commercial feed should form the basis of your chickens’ diet, many backyard chicken keepers like to supplement with treats and kitchen scraps. This can provide enrichment for your chickens and help reduce food waste. Some healthy supplements include:
- Leafy greens (lettuce, kale, spinach)
- Vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, squash)
- Fruits (berries, melons, apples – seeds removed)
- Grains (corn, wheat, oats)
- Mealworms or other insects (great protein source)
Remember, Emily, treats should make up no more than 10% of your chickens’ diet to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need from their main feed.
The Importance of Grit
In addition to feed, chickens need access to grit. Grit is small, hard particles (usually crushed stone) that chickens use in their gizzards to grind up their food. If your chickens are confined and don’t have access to small rocks or pebbles, you’ll need to provide grit separately. There are two types:
- Insoluble grit: Small stones or oyster shells for grinding food
- Soluble grit: Usually oyster shells, provides additional calcium for laying hens
Providing grit is essential for your chickens’ digestion and, in the case of soluble grit, egg production.
Seasonal Considerations
As you’re in Toronto, Emily, it’s worth considering how seasonal changes might affect your chickens’ nutritional needs. In colder months, chickens may need more energy to stay warm. You might consider:
- Increasing feed portions slightly in winter
- Offering warm treats like cooked oatmeal on very cold mornings
- Ensuring water doesn’t freeze (chickens need constant access to fresh water)
In summer, make sure your chickens have access to cool, fresh water and consider offering hydrating treats like watermelon or cucumber.
Monitoring Your Chickens’ Health
Regardless of the feed you choose, it’s important to monitor your chickens’ health and adjust their diet if necessary. Signs of good nutrition include:
- Shiny, smooth feathers
- Bright eyes and alert behavior
- Consistent egg production (for laying hens)
- Solid droppings
If you notice any changes in these areas, it might be time to reassess your feeding strategy.
Final Thoughts…
Emily, choosing the right feed for your chickens is a crucial part of backyard chicken keeping. Remember to provide age-appropriate feed, consider supplements and grit, and always ensure your chickens have access to fresh, clean water. By paying attention to your chickens’ nutritional needs, you’ll be rewarded with healthy, happy hens and delicious, fresh eggs.
Thank you for reaching out with this important question. Your dedication to providing the best care for your new flock is admirable. As you embark on this chicken-keeping journey in Toronto, don’t hesitate to connect with local chicken keepers or join online communities for ongoing support and advice. Here’s to many years of enjoyment with your backyard chickens!
