You should feed your chickens 2 to 3 times a day, providing a balanced diet to ensure their health and productivity.
Feeding chickens properly is crucial for their health and egg production. The right feeding schedule ensures your flock gets enough nutrients without wasting feed. This guide covers everything from frequency to portion sizes.
How Many Times a Day Should You Feed Chickens?
Most experts recommend feeding chickens 2-3 times daily. Here’s why this works best:
- Morning feeding fuels them for the day
- Midday snack maintains energy levels
- Evening meal helps with overnight digestion
Free-range chickens may eat less from feeders since they forage. Confined birds need constant access to feed. Learn how far free-range chickens roam to understand their foraging habits.
Morning Feeding (Essential)
Feed chickens as soon as they wake up. Their crops are empty after sleeping. A full crop in the morning:
- Prevents bullying among hungry birds
- Provides energy for egg production
- Reduces feather pecking behavior
Midday Feeding (Optional)
A midday snack works well for:
- High-producing layers
- Young growing birds
- Cold weather conditions
Evening Feeding (Essential)
Always feed chickens before roosting. This:
- Keeps them warm overnight
- Supports egg formation
- Prevents early morning hunger
How Much to Feed Chickens Per Day
The average chicken eats about 1/4 pound (113 grams) of feed daily. This varies by:
| Chicken Type | Daily Feed Amount |
|---|---|
| Bantam Chickens | 1/8 pound (57g) |
| Standard Layers | 1/4 pound (113g) |
| Meat Birds | 1/2 pound (227g) |
According to Organic Feeds, free-range chickens eat about 20% less from feeders since they forage.
Special Feeding Considerations
Chicks vs Adult Chickens
Baby chicks need constant access to feed:
- 0-8 weeks: 1-2 oz per day
- 8-16 weeks: 3-4 oz per day
- After 16 weeks: Adult portions
Seasonal Adjustments
Change feeding amounts with seasons:
- Winter: Increase by 10-15% for warmth
- Summer: Ensure constant fresh water
- Molting: Add extra protein
Free Feeding vs Scheduled Meals
There are two main feeding approaches:
Free Choice Feeding
Pros:
- Mimics natural grazing
- Reduces competition
- Works well for busy owners
Cons:
- Can attract pests
- May lead to selective eating
Scheduled Feeding
Pros:
- Better portion control
- Easier to monitor health
- Reduces waste
Cons:
- Requires more time
- Can cause stress if missed
Treats and Supplements
Treats should be less than 10% of diet. Good options include:
- Mealworms (high protein)
- Vegetable scraps
- Fruits like berries
Always provide grit for digestion. Learn when to feed chickens grit for optimal health.
Common Feeding Mistakes
Avoid these errors:
- Overfeeding treats
- Using the wrong feed type
- Dirty feeders
- Inconsistent schedules
According to Dine a Chook, inconsistent feeding can cause digestive issues like pendulous crop.
Automatic Feeders
For convenience, consider:
- Hanging tube feeders
- Treadle feeders (pest-proof)
- Automatic dispensers
These help maintain consistent food availability while reducing waste.