The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: langdon on June 04, 2010, 05:12:50 pm

Title: grit
Post by: langdon on June 04, 2010, 05:12:50 pm

at what age does baby chicks need grit?
thanks langdon :chook:

Title: Re: grit
Post by: CameronS on June 04, 2010, 08:09:03 pm

I would say towards 18weeks, just before they start laying, others may say different, but mine have never suffered.

Title: Re: grit
Post by: little blue on June 04, 2010, 09:01:02 pm

I understood that once they have access to grass and corn etc (ie more than just chick crumbs) then offer finely ground grit, so they don't suffer with impacted crops.

but as C's haven't suffered, dont worry too much!!

Title: Re: grit
Post by: Daveravey on June 04, 2010, 09:53:29 pm

As far as i'm led to believe, the hens only need grit to help breakdown grains (treats) they have stored in their crop.

Pellets turn to mash as they take in water, so doesn't need ground down before digesting.

Title: Re: grit
Post by: valr on June 04, 2010, 10:44:03 pm

do they need grit if they are free ranging?