You should stop feeding chick starter when your birds are around 18-20 weeks old. At this point, it's time to switch to a layer feed.
Why the Change?
- Nutritional Needs: Chick starter is designed for growing chicks, providing the specific nutrients needed for their rapid development.
- Egg Laying: However, chick starter lacks the correct balance of nutrients to support daily egg laying in mature hens. Layer feed is formulated to meet these specific needs. As stated in the provided reference, the chick starter grower feed provides them with all the nutrition they need to grow and develop properly, however, it does not have the right components to sustain daily egg laying. That's why you need to switch your young birds over to an all-natural layer feed when they are about 18-20 weeks old.
- Transition: A gradual transition between the two feeds is recommended to avoid digestive upset in your birds.
Key Differences Between Chick Starter and Layer Feed
| Feature | Chick Starter | Layer Feed |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Supports rapid growth in young chicks | Supports egg production in mature hens |
| Calcium Level | Lower calcium content | Higher calcium content to support eggshell formation |
| Protein Level | Typically higher for growth | Balanced protein for maintenance and egg-laying |
| Timing | Given from hatch to about 18-20 weeks old | Given from about 18-20 weeks old and onward |
How to Transition
- Gradual Mix: Begin mixing a small amount of layer feed with the chick starter.
- Increase Proportion: Gradually increase the amount of layer feed and reduce the amount of chick starter over a week or two.
- Monitor Birds: Observe your birds for any signs of digestive issues or stress and adjust the transition speed if needed.
Switching to layer feed at the right time is crucial for ensuring the long-term health and productivity of your flock.
