Chickens typically eat about 1/4 to 1/2 pound of feed per day, depending on their size, age, and purpose (layer, broiler, or pet).
Understanding how much chickens eat daily is crucial for their health and your budget. On average, chickens consume 1/4 to 1/3 pound (113-150g) of feed per day. However, this varies based on breed, age, and whether they free-range. This guide covers everything from feed types to cost-saving strategies.
Daily Chicken Feed Consumption
Most adult chickens eat between 0.25-0.33 lbs of feed daily. Here’s a breakdown:
| Chicken Type | Daily Feed Amount | Weekly Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Layers | 0.25-0.33 lbs | 1.75-2.31 lbs |
| Bantams | 0.15-0.20 lbs | 1.05-1.40 lbs |
| Meat Birds | 0.5-0.75 lbs | 3.5-5.25 lbs |
Factors Affecting Consumption
- Free-ranging: Chickens that forage eat 20-50% less commercial feed
- Season: Winter feeding increases by 10-15% for warmth
- Breed size: Large breeds like Rhode Island Reds eat more than bantams
- Age: Laying hens eat more than chicks or retired birds
Types of Chicken Feed
Starter Feed (0-8 weeks)
High-protein (18-20%) crumble for chicks. Contains essential nutrients for rapid growth.
Grower Feed (8-20 weeks)
16-18% protein formulation to support developing birds before egg production.
Layer Feed (20+ weeks)
Contains 16% protein and added calcium (3-4%) for strong eggshells. Available as pellets or crumbles.
Meat Bird Feed
High-protein (20-24%) feed for rapid growth. According to Backyard Chickens, meat birds consume nearly double the feed of layers.
Feeding Methods
Free Choice Feeding
Feed available 24/7 in hanging feeders or troughs. Best for large flocks with varied pecking orders.
Scheduled Feeding
Twice-daily feedings reduce waste and pests. Requires monitoring to ensure all birds eat.
Pasture Rotation
Combines free-ranging with movable pens. The Happy Chicken Coop recommends this for optimal nutrition and land management.
Cost Calculation Example
For 10 chickens eating 0.3 lbs daily:
- Daily consumption: 3 lbs
- Monthly: 90 lbs
- 50 lb bag lasts ~16 days
- Annual cost (at $20/bag): ~$450
Supplemental Feeding
Healthy Treats
- Vegetable scraps
- Mealworms (protein boost)
- Pumpkin seeds (natural dewormer)
Essential Supplements
- Oyster shell (calcium)
- Grit (digestion)
- Probiotics (gut health)
Common Feeding Mistakes
- Overfeeding treats (limit to 10% of diet)
- Using medicated feed unnecessarily
- Not providing enough feeder space (4″ per bird)
- Storing feed improperly (use airtight containers)
Seasonal Adjustments
Winter Feeding
Increase feed by 10-15% for warmth. Provide high-energy scratch grains in afternoon.
Summer Strategies
Feed during cooler hours. Ensure constant access to fresh water. Consider cooling methods to prevent heat stress.
Feed Storage Tips
- Use metal containers to deter rodents
- Store in cool, dry place
- Buy only 2-4 weeks supply to maintain freshness
- Check for mold before feeding
Reducing Feed Costs
- Implement rotational grazing
- Grow chicken-friendly plants (comfrey, kale)
- Collect food scraps from neighbors
- Use feed-saving feeders
- Consider fermenting feed for better nutrient absorption