Chick Feed: The right start for chicken, quail and turkey chicks

Chick Feed: Well fed from the very first day

Chicks grow faster in their first weeks than at any other time in their lives. A suitable chick feed provides plenty of protein, energy and minerals for this in a fine form that even the smallest can peck up easily. In our range you will find feed for chicken chicks, quail chicks and turkey poults, as a fine starter mash, as crumbs and in organic quality, plus grower feed for the next stage.

Differences between the species

Not every chick needs the same thing. Turkey poults have a particularly high protein requirement and get a starter of their own. Quail chicks are tiny and do best with a very fine texture. Chicken chicks eat classic chick crumbs for their first six weeks and then move on to grower feed. A chick starter mash from day one is especially fine and is a good choice for getting started.

Mash or crumbs?

Chick starter mash is very fine and easy to eat, but it is a little dustier. Crumbs stay cleaner in the trough and are eaten readily by slightly older chicks. Many keepers start with mash and switch to crumbs after a few days. Whichever form you choose, it is important that the chicks always have access to feed and fresh water, because they eat lots of small portions throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

What do chicks eat in their first few days?
From day one, chicks get a dedicated chick feed as a complete feed. At first it is best to scatter it on a flat surface so they can find it easily. Treats such as boiled egg or porridge oats are not necessary if the feed is right.

Can ducklings eat chick crumbs for chickens?
For a short transition that is fine. Ducklings need more niacin than chicken chicks, though, so mix in a little brewer's yeast or switch to a rearing feed for waterfowl. They also need a drinker they can dip their whole bill into.

When can chicks join the adult hens?
Only once they are fully feathered and noticeably bigger, usually from around eight to twelve weeks. At first, keep them side by side separated by a mesh panel so the flock can get used to the newcomers. Make sure the youngsters can reach food and water and are not constantly chased away.