Chickens should be fed twice a day, providing a balanced diet of grains, pellets, and fresh water for optimal health and egg production.
Feeding chickens properly is crucial for their health, egg production, and overall well-being. While chickens are opportunistic eaters, their feeding schedule depends on age, breed, and environment. This guide covers everything from chick feeding to adult maintenance.
Daily Feeding Frequency for Chickens
Adult chickens should have constant access to feed during daylight hours. Their digestive systems work best with multiple small meals:
- Morning: Refill feeders at dawn when chickens wake with empty crops
- Evening: Ensure feeders have food before roosting for overnight digestion
- Daytime: Maintain 1/4 pound of feed per chicken available at all times
According to poultry experts at Dine a Chook, limiting feed access causes bullying and health issues in lower-ranking birds. Dominant chickens will monopolize food during restricted feeding times.
Special Considerations
Free-Range Chickens
While foraging provides some nutrition, free-range chickens still need:
- Constant access to complete feed
- Supplemental calcium sources
- Fresh water always available
Confined Chickens
Chickens without foraging space require:
- Unlimited access to balanced feed
- Environmental enrichment to prevent boredom
- Regular treats like vegetables or mealworms
Feeding by Life Stage
| Age | Feed Type | Frequency | Amount Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-8 weeks | Starter crumbles | Free choice | 1-2 oz |
| 8-16 weeks | Grower feed | Free choice | 1/4 lb |
| 16+ weeks | Layer feed | Free choice | 1/4-1/3 lb |
Chick Feeding Tips
Baby chicks need special care:
- Use chick starter with 18-20% protein
- Feed should be available 24/7 for first 8 weeks
- Provide grit if offering anything besides starter feed
For more on raising chicks, see our guide on getting baby chickens to like you.
Seasonal Feeding Adjustments
Winter Feeding
Cold weather increases nutritional needs:
- Increase feed by 10-15% when temperatures drop below freezing
- Offer scratch grains before roosting to generate body heat
- Ensure water doesn’t freeze – chickens won’t eat if they can’t drink
Summer Feeding
Heat affects chicken appetites:
- Feed early morning and late evening when cooler
- Provide electrolytes in water to encourage drinking
- Reduce scratch grains which generate body heat
Common Feeding Mistakes
Overfeeding Treats
While chickens love treats like:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Mealworms
These should never exceed 10% of total diet according to Organic Feeds. Too many treats lead to nutritional imbalances and obesity.
Inadequate Water
Chickens won’t eat properly without fresh water:
- Provide clean water at all times
- Use heated bases in winter
- Clean containers daily to prevent algae
Special Feeding Situations
Molting Period
During feather regrowth:
- Increase protein to 20%
- Add feather-building supplements
- Expect reduced egg production
Broody Hens
Hens sitting on nests need:
- Easy access to food and water
- High-protein treats to maintain condition
- Monitoring to ensure they’re eating enough
For more on chicken behavior, read about why chickens hide their heads.
Feed Storage Tips
Proper storage prevents waste and maintains nutrition:
- Use airtight containers to keep out moisture and pests
- Store in cool, dry place away from sunlight
- Buy only what you’ll use in 2-4 weeks
- Check for mold before feeding
By following these feeding guidelines, your chickens will stay healthy and productive year-round. Remember that observation is key – adjust amounts based on your flock’s consumption and condition.