How Much Do Chooks Eat? Feed and Water Basics

1. Feed

An adult laying hen often eats somewhere around 120 to 150 g of complete layer feed a day. It changes with breed, size, weather and how much they forage. Check the feed bag for its own guide.

2. Use a complete feed

Layer pellets or crumble give the balance of protein and calcium they need to lay. Scraps and treats should only be a small part of the diet. Some foods are toxic to chooks, so check before you feed scraps.

3. Water

Chooks drink more than you think, more in hot weather. Always have clean, cool water, in the shade.

4. Cut waste

• A covered or treadle feeder keeps out rain and wild birds.
• Hang feeders at the height of the birds' backs.

5. Plan it

The Chook Feed Calculator works out a month of feed and cost from your own numbers.

General information only. Check the maker's instructions, and ask your council about approvals.

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