What Should I Feed My Backyard Chickens?

[HappyHens]

Hi everyone,

I’m new to raising chickens, and I’m trying to figure out what to feed them to keep them healthy and happy. I know there are different types of feed, but I’m not sure which one is best for backyard chickens.

Should I give them layer feed, or do they need something else? Can I also give them kitchen scraps, and if so, are there certain foods I should avoid? I want to make sure I’m giving them the right nutrition without accidentally harming them.

Thanks for any advice you can share! I really appreciate it!

[SustainableSoul]

For backyard chickens, layer feed is a great starting point once they’re old enough to lay eggs (around 16-18 weeks). It’s formulated with the right balance of protein, calcium, and nutrients they need for healthy egg production.

As for kitchen scraps, chickens love them! Just be careful to avoid things like avocado pits/skins, chocolate, raw potato peels, and anything moldy. Treats should only make up about 10% of their diet so they don’t miss out on the nutrients in their regular feed. You’re going to love watching them snack, it’s so entertaining!

[CompostChampion]

Hi there! Layer feed is perfect for hens that are actively laying.
But if you have younger chickens (pullets), they’ll need a grower feed with more protein until they’re ready to start laying.
Always provide fresh, clean water and consider offering oyster shells on the side for extra calcium if your hens’ eggshells seem thin.
Scraps are fine, but stay away from salty or sugary foods, raw beans, and onion/garlic as they can affect the taste of eggs.
If you have a garden, your chickens might also enjoy safe greens like kale or spinach, it’s a great way to supplement their diet naturally!

[SunkenHarvest]

You’re off to a great start by asking this question!
A good quality layer feed will cover most of their nutritional needs, but make sure they have access to grit if they don’t free-range.
Grit helps them digest their food properly.
Chickens love variety, so adding healthy scraps like vegetable peels, fruits (not citrus), and cooked rice can be a nice treat.
Just avoid anything greasy or processed.
If you want to spoil them, mealworms or black soldier fly larvae are high in protein and great for their overall health.
Have fun feeding them, they’ll quickly become your little food critics!

[FeatheredFriend]

Layer feed is great once they start laying, but if they're younger, start with grower feed. Scraps are fine in moderation-just avoid salty, moldy, or toxic foods like avocado and chocolate.

[HenThusiast]

Fermenting feed can boost nutrition and digestion. I soak their pellets for a day, and they go crazy for it! Plus, it cuts down on waste.

[EggsAndGiggles]

Kitchen scraps are great, but some foods can be dangerous. I made a simple "safe food" list and keep it by the coop to avoid mistakes!

[Eggspresso]

I free-feed layer pellets and toss in scratch grains for treats. They also get garden greens and mealworms for protein. but chickens thrive on variety!

[HatchlingHustler]

I mix layer feed with crushed eggshells for extra calcium. My chickens love veggie scraps, but I stay away from onions and citrus since they don't seem to like them.

[GoldenYolkGuy]

Be careful with too many treats-mine got picky when I overdid it! Now, I stick to layer feed and occasional healthy scraps like leafy greens and fruit.