What to feed chickens to lay eggs? If you are raising chickens for eggs, you want to make sure they are getting the proper nutrition to keep them healthy and producing. Chickens require a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to lay eggs regularly. In this blog, we’ll discuss what to feed chickens to promote egg laying.
You may also want to read about the best laying mash.
What to feed chickens to lay eggs?
Layer feed
What to feed chickens to lay eggs? The best option for feeding chickens that lay eggs is layer feed. This type of feed is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of laying hens. Layer feed typically contains around 16% protein and is high in calcium to support the development of strong eggshells.
Layer feed can be purchased in either pellet or crumble form. Pellets are more compact and easier to store, while crumbles are more palatable for some chickens. You can also find organic or non-GMO layer feed if you prefer.
Supplemental protein
While layer feed contains enough protein to support egg laying, you may want to add additional protein sources to your chickens’ diet to boost egg production. Good sources of protein for chickens include mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, and soybeans.
You can feed mealworms and black soldier fly larvae to your chickens live or dried. Chickens love them, and they provide an excellent source of protein. Soybeans can be ground and added to your chickens’ feed. Soybeans are a rich source of amino acids, which are essential for egg production.
What to feed chickens to lay eggs?
Greens and veggies
Chickens love to forage for greens and vegetables, and these can be a healthy addition to their diet. Greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium. Calcium is essential for eggshell development, so providing greens to your chickens can help ensure they are getting enough calcium.
Vegetables like carrots, beets, and squash are also good for chickens. These vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and feather development, and it also helps regulate egg production.
Fruits
Fruits are a tasty treat for chickens, and they can also provide some important nutrients. Fruits like berries and melons are rich in antioxidants, which help boost the immune system. Apples are also a good choice, as they are high in vitamin C.
You should limit the amount of fruit you feed your chickens, however, as too much can lead to diarrhea. A good rule of thumb is to offer fruit as a treat a few times a week.
Grit
Chickens require grit to help break down their food in their gizzards. Grit is made up of small, hard particles like sand or crushed oyster shells. Chickens that free-range may get enough grit from the soil, but those that are confined will need grit added to their diet.
You can purchase commercial grit, or you can provide your chickens with small amounts of sand or crushed oyster shells. The amount of grit your chickens need will depend on their age and the type of feed they are eating. Young chickens need less grit, while older chickens may need more.
Water
Water is perhaps the most important nutrient for chickens, and it’s essential for egg production. Make sure your chickens have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Chickens can drink up to a pint of water per day, so make sure their waterer is large enough to meet their needs.
You can also add electrolytes to your chickens’ water to help keep them hydrated and healthy. Electrolytes are especially important during hot weather or periods of stress, such as molting or illness.
