A layers feeding schedule provides you with poultry feeding instructions necessary to achieve hens health and yield.
Typically, a layers feeding schedule specifies the type of feed and amounts to be fed to a flock by its age. Additionally, such a schedule may also specify bird weight tracking chart.
Key components of a layers feeding schedule:
- Type of feed by age
- Amount of feed per bird per day
Please note that different layers breeds have different feeding schedule. Therefore, you should ensure that you obtain and use a schedule specific to your flock.
Also see broilers feeding schedule: how to achieve optimum flock health and productivity.
Poultry feeding schedule
There are three general poultry feeding schedules, tailor made for specific flock types. These are:
- Layers feeding schedule
- Broilers feeding schedule
- Mixed flock feeding schedule
Layers feeding schedule
Typically, layers feeding schedule consist of 3 feed types namely: starter, grower and layer. Moreover, each of these feed types are specially tailored to the nutritional needs of your layers birds by age.
| Feed type | Time / age | Amount / bird / day |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | Week 1 – 3 | 60 – 90 g |
| Grower | Week 7 – 17 | 90 – 120 g |
| Layer | Week 18 – 85 | 120 – 150 g |
For instance, Starter feeds are optimal for the initial stages of growth. Similarly, Grower feeds are optimised for chick maturation while Layers feeds are suited for egg production.
Additionally, a layers feeding schedule may specify a feed-switching regimen. Typically, this prescribes feed mixing ratios that you can use when switching poultry feed types. Furthermore, feed switching if done incorrectly can result to stress, loss of productivity or stagnated growth.
Read more about poultry feeding schedule, feed formulation, and feed switching regimen.
Where to get a layers feeding schedule
If you are a commercial poultry farmer, you should obtain your layers feeding schedule from your flock supplier. Actually, the supplier should provide it to you at the time of flock purchase.
However, if you have misplaced your layers feeding schedule or for some other reason do not have one, you can obtain one from a certified local vet. Usually, such a vet will be knowledgeable and can provide a tailored feeding schedule.
Lastly but not least, you can obtain a layers feeding schedule from your poultry feed supplier or agro-dealer. Although you usually can obtain a feeding schedule for free from your flock supplier, a vet or agro-dealer may charge you a small fee.