Hi,
Gretta, Grit and Oystershell are two different products. Grit is "teeth" that chickens do not have. Chicks fed Starter ration, have it provided within the ration. But when they are fed grains, cracked, they will need the "teeth". I get a fine grit for my chicks when they first get grain at about 8 weeks (very little). And from then on, they will need it free choice, but they do not need Oystershell (for pullets and hens) until they start to lay--5-6 months. Theirs is a much coarser Grit (granite rock)for older chickens. Their Layer ration, also has it, but not enough to sustain production for a hen. (commercial flock-hens only have to lay eggs for about a year--then they are dog/cat food!) But we want our hens to have enough calcium replacement to produce eggs for some years longer! Depending upon where you live, free range chickens can often pick up enough rock to do the job (but not the calcium). I have no rock at all, where I live, soil is sandy loam, too soft and fine to help a chicken "chew". CJR
Cjeanr thanks for the info!!
My question is a pretty simple one. At what age should I give my chicks grits(shells), to eat?
Thanks for any info. you can give!
By Cjeanr on Tuesday, April 23, 2002 - 02:40 am:
By Gretta on Friday, April 26, 2002 - 11:39 pm: