“I’m new to raising chickens and I’m not sure how often I should be feeding them. I have a small flock of 6 hens in my backyard, and I want to make sure they’re getting the right amount of food. Can you help me figure out a good feeding schedule?” Thanks so much, Elizabeth, Portland, Oregon, USA.
How Often Should Chickens Be Fed? A Comprehensive Guide
Hey Elizabeth! Thanks for reaching out about feeding your new flock of chickens. It’s great that you’re taking the time to ensure your feathered friends are getting the proper nutrition. Let’s dive into the world of chicken feeding schedules and help you develop the best routine for your backyard flock in Portland.
Understanding Chicken Feeding Basics
Before we get into the specifics of how often to feed chickens, it’s important to understand their natural feeding habits. In the wild, chickens are constant foragers, spending most of their day pecking and scratching for food. This instinct remains strong in domesticated chickens, which is why you’ll often see your hens scratching around the yard even when they have access to feed.
Chickens have relatively small stomachs, but their crops (a pouch in their throat) allow them to store food for later digestion. This means they naturally eat small amounts throughout the day rather than large meals at set times.
Free-Feeding vs. Scheduled Feeding
There are two main approaches to feeding chickens:
- Free-feeding (ad libitum): This involves leaving food available at all times, allowing chickens to eat whenever they want.
- Scheduled feeding: This method involves offering food at specific times of the day.
Both methods have their pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on your specific situation, Elizabeth.
The Case for Free-Feeding
Free-feeding is the most common method for backyard chicken keepers, and it might be a good option for your flock in Portland. Here’s why:
- It mimics natural feeding behavior
- Ensures chickens always have access to food
- Reduces competition and pecking order issues
- Convenient for the chicken keeper
With free-feeding, you simply need to check the feeder daily and refill it when it gets low. This method works well for most backyard flocks, especially if you’re away from home during the day.
When Scheduled Feeding Might Be Necessary
While free-feeding is usually sufficient, there are some situations where scheduled feeding might be beneficial:
- Controlling weight in overweight birds
- Managing feed costs in large flocks
- Encouraging egg-laying at specific times
- Preventing nocturnal predators from being attracted to food left out overnight
If you decide to use scheduled feeding, Elizabeth, most experts recommend feeding adult chickens twice a day: once in the morning and once in the evening.
Factors Affecting Feeding Frequency
The ideal feeding frequency can vary depending on several factors:
1. Age of the Chickens
Chicks and young pullets need to eat more frequently than adult chickens. Here’s a general guideline:
- Chicks (0-8 weeks): Free access to feed at all times
- Pullets (8-20 weeks): Free access or 3-4 times per day
- Adult chickens (20+ weeks): Free access or 1-2 times per day
2. Breed and Size
Larger breeds and those bred for meat production may need more frequent feeding or larger quantities of food compared to smaller, egg-laying breeds.
3. Laying Status
Laying hens require more food and calcium to support egg production. During peak laying periods, they might need free access to feed or more frequent meals.
4. Season
Chickens typically eat more in colder weather to maintain body heat. In the winter months in Portland, you might notice your hens eating more frequently or larger quantities.
5. Free-Range vs. Confined
If your chickens have access to a large area where they can forage for insects, plants, and seeds, they may need less supplemental feed. However, confined chickens will rely more heavily on the feed you provide.
How Much to Feed
Elizabeth, for your flock of 6 hens, the amount of feed needed can vary, but here’s a general guideline:
- An average laying hen eats about 1/4 to 1/3 pound of feed per day
- For 6 hens, you’re looking at about 1.5 to 2 pounds of feed daily
Remember, these are averages. The actual amount can vary based on the factors mentioned earlier. It’s a good idea to monitor your chickens’ body condition and adjust the feed amount accordingly.
Types of Feed
The type of feed you offer is just as important as how often you feed. Here’s a quick overview:
- Layer feed: For adult laying hens, typically 16-18% protein
- Grower feed: For pullets, usually 18-20% protein
- Chick starter: For chicks, higher in protein (20-22%)
- Scratch grains: A treat, not a complete feed
- Kitchen scraps: Can be offered as treats, but shouldn’t exceed 10% of the diet
Elizabeth, since you have adult hens, a quality layer feed should form the basis of their diet.
Water: The Often Overlooked Nutrient
While we’re focusing on feed, it’s crucial not to forget about water. Chickens need constant access to clean, fresh water. In fact, a chicken will typically drink about twice as much water by weight as the food it eats. Make sure to check and refill water containers at least once a day, more often in hot weather.
Signs of Proper Feeding
To ensure your feeding schedule is working, look for these signs:
- Chickens are active and alert
- Feathers are smooth and shiny
- Consistent egg production (for laying hens)
- Healthy weight (you should be able to feel the keel bone but it shouldn’t be prominent)
If you notice any of your hens looking too thin or overweight, you may need to adjust your feeding strategy.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
As you establish your feeding routine, be aware of these common pitfalls:
- Overfeeding treats and table scraps
- Not providing enough calcium for laying hens
- Using the wrong type of feed for the chicken’s age or purpose
- Allowing feed to become moldy or contaminated
- Not adjusting feed amounts seasonally or as the flock’s needs change
Final Thoughts…
Elizabeth, thank you for sending in your question about feeding your new flock. Remember, the key to a good feeding routine is observation and flexibility. Start with free-feeding a quality layer feed and adjust as needed based on your hens’ behavior and health. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit to find what works best for your chickens and your schedule.
Raising chickens can be a rewarding experience, and getting their nutrition right is a big part of that. Keep an eye on your flock, enjoy their quirky personalities, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions as you continue your chicken-keeping journey in Portland. Happy hen-raising!
