| What should I feed my baby birds? |
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I have good luck with an unmedicated 20% waterfowl starter, graduating to an 18% waterfowl grower to supplement pasture. For simplicity, I use it for everybody, as waterfowl have the most specific nutritional needs and their feeds are not medicated. The protein levels are higher than broiler chickens need and less than commercial turkeys receive, but it gives a good start to heritage turkeys and chickens. Make the change from starter to grower when they are large enough to manage the larger particle size. Hand harvested or supermarket greenery is a good addition until pasture is ready. Remember to provide fresh water and granite grit of the same caliber as the feed particles. Once out on pasture, an unmedicated chick grower or finisher will suffice as they mature. When nearing adult size on good pasture, a scratch grain mix can be used in part, as it is more weather proof, less is wasted on damp days. By that point you will know what lies ahead for your birds, and will make different feeding decisions for breeders, pets, and birds being finished for the table. |
