What to Feed Your Hens at Every Stage
Walk into any feed store and you'll face a wall of options. Here's a plain-English breakdown of what your hens actually need at every stage.
Chicks (Hatch to 8 Weeks)
Chick starter feed — high protein (18–22%), usually medicated to prevent coccidiosis. Fresh water at all times.
Pullets (8–18 Weeks)
Grower feed (16–18% protein). Do not feed layer feed yet — the calcium is too high for young kidneys. If you're picking up our ready-to-lay pullets, they arrive right at this transition point.
Laying Hens (18+ Weeks)
Layer feed (16–18% protein) with added calcium. Offer free-choice oyster shell in a separate container — let hens self-regulate. Pellets produce less waste than crumble.
Key Rules
- Scratch is a treat, not a diet — 10% max
- Fresh, clean water daily — up to a pint per hen per day
- Avoid: avocado, chocolate, onions, raw beans, salty foods
- Mealworms are excellent during molt for protein boost