Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => The Hen House => Topic started by: Jae Dawn on September 13, 2010, 14:20

Title: Grit / Oyster shell does same job?
Post by: Jae Dawn on September 13, 2010, 14:20

 Hi,

  I am a bit confused does Grit and Oyster shell do the same job?  I was told by someone ... not sure who being a newbie I get told lots of things and half the time can't remember where I heard it.  I have new chickens about 10 weeks old and not sure which to get them or both?  I know they would lay for several more weeks.  Just want them to have it available now so they are use to it.  Thanks ...

Title: Re: Grit / Oyster shell does same job?
Post by: Beano on September 13, 2010, 14:47

Hi,
Grit is to help them "chew" their food in their gullets, due to them not having teeth.
Oyster shell will boost their calcium levels. Not too sure if the oyster shell is needed yet, seeing as their not laying.

Title: Re: Grit / Oyster shell does same job?
Post by: darkbrowneggs on September 13, 2010, 15:21

My parents kept poultry in the 50's and we always gave them grit, so when I started my flock (80's) I automatically did the same.  As mine free range I just buy Oystershell, and have it in a separate hopper so they can help themselves if they feel they need it, and they can pick up bits of stone from the range.

I spoke to a well-respected poultry man who said he never gives his birds grit of any kind, sssoooooo  !!!  It looks like one of those things.  My birds don't eat a lot and one bag of oystershell lasts for years and years, but it puts my mine at rest and I think then if they need it they can choose to eat it.

All the best
Sue
Dark Brown Eggs