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Things To Feed Your Chickens for Optimal Egg Production
Whether you’re new to raising chickens or an experienced farmer, understanding the things to feed your chickens will help you maintain a steady supply of eggs all year round. Keeping chickens happy and healthy is crucial for ensuring consistent egg production. What you feed your chickens plays a significant role in their health, especially when aiming for year-round egg production.
The Importance of Nutrition in Chicken Feed
In the first year, chickens typically lay eggs regularly, regardless of the feed. However, as they age, the consistency of egg production depends largely on their diet. Providing a well-balanced, nutrient-rich feed is essential for their long-term health and egg-laying capacity. Some chickens can lay eggs consistently even after five years if given the right nutrition.
The Best Things To Feed Your Chickens So They Lay Eggs All Year
Feeding your chickens a varied diet that includes grains, seeds, and protein sources is key to keeping them healthy and productive. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to feed your chickens so they lay eggs all year.
1. Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
Black oil sunflower seeds are an excellent source of fat, which is essential for chickens, especially during colder months. These seeds are smaller and contain more oil than regular sunflower seeds, making them perfect for adding to your chicken feed mix. The high-fat content provides energy and supports overall health, contributing to consistent egg production.
2. Whole Corn
Whole corn is another crucial component of chicken feed. Many people wonder if their chickens can eat whole corn, and the answer is yes! Chickens, even small ones, can easily swallow whole corn. It’s important to note that there are two types of corn: animal corn and human corn. When feeding your chickens, make sure to use animal corn, which is less sweet and more nutritious for them.
3. Premium Cleaned Oats
Oats are a fantastic addition to your chicken feed. They provide fiber and energy and can even sprout into oat grass, offering additional nutrients. Cleaned oats are unprocessed and serve as a great base for your chicken feed mix. The fiber in oats helps with digestion and keeps your chickens healthy, contributing to their ability to lay eggs consistently.
4. Animal Protein (Puppy Food)
Incorporating animal protein into your chickens’ diet is especially important during the winter when bugs are scarce. Puppy food is a convenient source of animal protein and can include various meats like lamb or buffalo. This protein boost helps maintain your chickens’ health and energy levels, ensuring they continue laying eggs even in colder weather.
5. Diatomaceous Earth
Keeping your chickens dewormed is crucial for their overall health and egg production. Diatomaceous earth is a natural dewormer that can be mixed into your chicken feed. It helps eliminate parasites that can weaken your chickens and reduce egg production. Regular use of diatomaceous earth will keep your chickens healthy and productive.
6. Oyster Shells
Oyster shells are a vital source of calcium for chickens. Calcium is necessary for strong eggshells and the muscle function required to lay eggs. Chickens with a calcium deficiency may become egg-bound, a serious condition that can be avoided by adding crushed oyster shells to their feed. This simple addition ensures your chickens get the calcium they need to lay eggs all year long.
How to Mix Your Chicken Feed
Creating your own chicken feed mix at home is not only economical but also ensures that your chickens are getting whole, unprocessed foods. Start with oats as the base, adding layers of whole corn, sunflower seeds, and diatomaceous earth. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of nutrients. This homemade feed mix will provide your chickens with the necessary nutrients to keep them healthy and laying eggs consistently.
Step-by-Step Chicken Feed Mixing
- Start with Oats: Begin with a base of cleaned oats. Fill a container about six to seven inches high with oats.
- Add Whole Corn: Add a layer of whole corn, slightly less than the oats, as corn is heavier and more calorie-dense.
- Incorporate Sunflower Seeds: Add black oil sunflower seeds, adjusting the amount based on the size of your flock.
- Mix in Diatomaceous Earth: Add two heaping scoops of diatomaceous earth to help with deworming.
- Repeat Layers: For larger batches, repeat the layering process to ensure a well-mixed feed.
- Optional – Add Alfalfa: If available, adding alfalfa can provide additional calcium and nutrients. You can either buy alfalfa hay or use the leftover crumbs from alfalfa cubes.
Why Homemade Chicken Feed Is Better
Some may wonder why bother making your own chicken feed when pre-made options are available. The answer lies in the quality of the ingredients. By mixing your own feed, you can avoid processed foods and provide your chickens with whole, nutritious ingredients. This leads to healthier chickens and better egg production. While pre-made feeds can be convenient, they often contain fillers and additives that may not be as beneficial for your chickens.
Final Thoughts on Things To Feed Your Chickens for Optimal Egg Production
Feeding your chickens the right diet is crucial for maintaining their health and ensuring consistent egg production. By incorporating black oil sunflower seeds, whole corn, oats, animal protein, diatomaceous earth, and oyster shells into their feed, you provide a balanced and nutritious diet that supports year-round egg production. Mixing your own feed ensures that your chickens receive the best possible nutrition, leading to happy, healthy birds that lay lots of eggs.
For more tips on raising chickens and other livestock, check out our other blog posts on sustainable farming practices. Remember, the key to successful chicken farming is in the feed, so choose the best things to feed your chickens and enjoy the benefits of consistent egg production.
Broilers vs Layers: Which Poultry Farming Path Should You Take?
How to Start a Poultry Farm in Namibia
Layer Chicken Breeds: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Egg Layers for Your Flock
Layers vs Broilers: Which is More Profitable?
Increase Egg Production: Proven Strategies for Higher Yields
Additional Resources for Farmers in Namibia
The National Association of Horticulture Producers (Nahop) offers training for small-scale farmers across Namibia. Additionally, the Namibian Agronomic Board provides valuable resources and guidelines, which you can access by visiting their website.
If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!
