CHICKEN FACTS:

Chickens are domestic (farm) birds that cannot fly. The adult female chicken is called a hen, the adult male is called a rooster, and the young are called poults. There are many different breeds of chicken that are different sizes and colors. Bantams are miniature chicken breeds. A group of chickens is called a flock. The scientific name of the chicken is Gallus domesticus (genus and species).

ANATOMY:

The rooster is larger and more brightly colored than the hen; he also has a larger comb. Roosters make a very loud crowing sound and can be quite aggressive. Hens lay eggs that range in color from white to pale brown and other pale colors. They have a well-developed gizzard (a part of the stomach that contains tiny stones) that grinds up their food.

FEEDING LAYING CHICKENS 1-2-3’s

Laying chickens are omnivores, meaning it is in their nature to consume meat and vegetable material. In the wild this would consist of insects, worms, seeds and other plant material. Layers will not survive on vegetable scraps alone. To achieve good health, well-being and egg production, the laying hen must receive a balanced diet.

Food: Each laying hen will eat approximately 120g layer pellets per day.

Water: 6 hens in hot weather will drink about 3.5—4 litres per day

Protein: Worms, grubs and insects are a good source of protein, along with layer pellets which are formulated to ensure overall health. They also contain vitamins and minerals

Calcium: Shell-grit provides a sustained slow-release of calcium which is beneficial to egg production

Green Feed and Scraps: Green feeds (such as weeds, grass) and scraps are a source of vitamins and can contribute carotenoid pigments for yolk colour.

Natural Health: For natural health include raw garlic and chopped onion in your chooks’ diet regularly to help control worm infestations.

For Maximum Health: do not restrict the feed intake of layer pellets as they will eat to satisfy their nutritional requirements. We do suggest you provide a self-feeder with a plentiful supply of feed.