For calcium, yes!!
Alright, so you've got these broiler chicks, and you're wondering, "Hey, should I throw in some calcium for them from day one?"First off, these little guys are broiler chicks – the ones you're hoping will grow up into plump, happy chickens. Now, when it comes to their diet, you want to make sure they're getting the right stuff.
So, calcium is kind of like the real deal for strong bones and eggshells. But here's the catch – for broiler chicks in their first week, they usually get what they need from their starter feed. It's like giving them a good, nutritious baby formula.
Now, you don't need to rush into the calcium game. In the first week, focus on the starter feed designed just for these little chicks. It's got all the right nutrients to kick-start their journey.
Keep an eye on your chicks. If they're happily pecking at their starter feed and looking all content, you're on the right track. It's like seeing a baby happily chomping on a teething toy – you know they're getting what they need.
As your broiler chicks grow, you can slowly introduce calcium into their diet. Think of it like leveling up their meals – from starter feed to grower feed and eventually to layer feed when they're all grown up and ready to lay eggs.
Now, every farmer has their own trick up their sleeve. Some might introduce a bit of crushed eggshell or oyster shell early on for that extra calcium boost. It's like adding a pinch of seasoning to a recipe – just a little something to enhance the flavor.
In the end, it's like giving your broiler chicks the right menu at the right time. Starter feed first, and as they grow, sprinkle in some calcium goodness. Keep an eye on those chirpy little fellows, and you'll be on your way to raising some healthy, happy chickens.
When do I administer calcium to my birds, at what age?
At week two, give them calcium and after a week stop and observed them.