Chickens should be fed twice a day, providing a balanced diet of grains, protein, and greens to ensure optimal health and egg production.
Feeding chickens properly is crucial for their health, egg production, and overall wellbeing. While chickens are excellent at self-regulating their food intake, understanding their feeding patterns helps ensure they get the nutrition they need.
How Many Times a Day Should You Feed Chickens?
Adult chickens should have access to food throughout the day. Their digestive systems work best with multiple small meals rather than one or two large feedings. Here’s the ideal feeding schedule:
- Morning: Fill feeders when chickens wake up (they’ll be hungry after fasting overnight)
- Midday: Top up feeders if needed
- Evening: Ensure feeders have food before roosting
Chickens naturally eat about 15-20 times per day in small amounts. According to poultry experts, limiting access to food can cause digestive issues and pecking order problems.
Free-Choice vs. Scheduled Feeding
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Free-choice (available all day) | Mimics natural eating patterns, reduces stress, better for pecking order | May attract pests if not managed properly |
| Scheduled feeding (2-3 times/day) | Easier to monitor consumption | Can lead to overeating at feeding times, dominant birds may prevent others from eating |
How Much to Feed Chickens by Age
Chicken feeding requirements change as they grow. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Chicks (0-6 weeks)
- Starter feed (20-22% protein)
- 1-2 ounces per chick daily
- Feed available at all times
Pullets (6-20 weeks)
- Grower feed (16-18% protein)
- 3-4 ounces per bird daily
- Feed available at all times
Laying Hens (20+ weeks)
- Layer feed (16% protein, added calcium)
- 4-5 ounces per hen daily
- Free-choice feeding recommended
Meat Birds
Broiler chickens have different requirements. They typically consume:
- 0-3 weeks: 1.5 lbs per bird total
- 3-6 weeks: 5.5 lbs per bird total
- 6-8 weeks: 7 lbs per bird total
Special Feeding Considerations
Water Requirements
Chickens need constant access to clean water. They drink about twice as much water as they eat food by weight. In hot weather, water consumption can triple.
Supplemental Feeding
While commercial feed provides complete nutrition, chickens enjoy and benefit from:
- Fresh greens and vegetables
- Calcium sources like oyster shells
- Grit for digestion (especially important if they don’t free-range)
Learn more about when to provide grit for optimal digestion.
Seasonal Adjustments
Chickens eat more in cold weather to maintain body heat and less in extreme heat. Adjust quantities accordingly:
- Winter: Increase feed by 10-15%
- Summer: Ensure feed stays fresh and provide shade
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
1. Inconsistent Feeding Times
Chickens thrive on routine. Irregular feeding can cause stress and behavioral issues.
2. Overcrowded Feeders
Provide enough feeder space so all birds can eat comfortably. A good rule is 4 inches of feeder space per bird.
3. Poor Quality Feed
Stale or moldy feed can cause health problems. Store feed in airtight containers and check regularly.
4. Ignoring Pecking Order
Dominant birds may prevent others from eating. Spread out multiple feeders and prevent aggressive pecking.
Automatic vs. Manual Feeding Systems
Consider these options for your flock:
Automatic Feeders
- Pros: Consistent food supply, good for vacations
- Cons: Can jam, may attract rodents
Hanging Tube Feeders
- Pros: Reduce waste, keep feed clean
- Cons: Need proper height adjustment
Trough Feeders
- Pros: Simple, easy to clean
- Cons: Birds can roost on them, more waste
For more tips on managing your flock when you’re away, see our guide on chicken care during vacations.
Signs Your Feeding Routine Needs Adjustment
Watch for these indicators:
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Decreased egg production
- Aggressive behavior at feeding times
- Excessive foraging (may indicate hunger)
- Wasted feed (may indicate overfeeding)
According to Backyard Chicken experts, observing your flock’s behavior is the best way to fine-tune their feeding schedule.
Feeding Different Chicken Types
Layer Hens
Require consistent calcium for eggshell production. Provide oyster shell free-choice in a separate container.
Meat Birds
Need higher protein feed (20-22%) for rapid growth. Feed should be available at all times.
Bantams
Eat about half as much as standard chickens. Use smaller feeders to prevent waste.
Senior Chickens
May need softer food or supplements. Monitor weight and adjust as needed.