Chicken Laying Feed: Strong shells and hard-working hens

Chicken Laying Feed: The daily basis for full nesting boxes

During the season a hen lays an egg almost every day, and for that she needs plenty of protein, energy and above all calcium. Good chicken laying feed is designed for exactly this and, as a complete feed, covers all of her needs. With us you can buy it as layers mash, pellets, crumbs or muesli, conventional and organic, along with oyster shell grit and grain as extras.

Mash, pellets or muesli?

Layers mash is eaten slowly and keeps your hens busy for a long time. It works well in feeders and is popular with many backyard keepers. Pellets and crumbs stop hens from picking out only their favourite bits, and there is less dust in the coop. A layers muesli looks varied and is eaten readily, but keep an eye on whether your birds are just sorting out the grain. Which form suits best depends mainly on what your hens like to eat.

Calcium for firm eggshells

Thin or soft shells are often a sign that calcium is lacking. Layers feed already supplies a good share, but a dish of oyster shell grit or a limestone and shell grit mix offered freely is still worthwhile. Each hen then takes as much as she needs. Grain such as a six-grain mix or maize is a popular afternoon extra, but it should only make up a small part of the daily ration, otherwise laying will drop off.

Frequently asked questions

Can cockerels eat layers feed?
Yes, in a mixed flock cockerels simply eat alongside the hens. The calcium in layers feed does not harm adult cockerels in normal amounts. You only need to feed them separately if you keep cockerels on their own for a longer period.

Why are my hens laying eggs with thin shells?
Often calcium is lacking, for instance when the menu is heavy on grain and light on layers feed. Older hens, heat or stress can also lead to thinner shells. Offer oyster shell grit freely and ask your vet to take a look if the problem persists.

When should I switch from grower feed to layers feed?
Ideally just before the first egg, usually between weeks 18 and 21. A bright red comb tells you that laying is about to begin. Mix the layers feed into the old feed over several days so your hens get used to the taste and texture.