FAQ's - Layers
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What is the best feed for layers?
The best feed for your layers is Agrifoods Layers Mash and Agrifoods Layers Concentrate. Feed choice depends on factors like purpose of production, production stage, local availability (proximity of shop to your place of production), budget etc. We encourage you to use Agrifoods feed for your layers because it is very affordable (hence more profit), highly nutritious feed that is formulated by an experienced nutritionist to produce quality eggs.
How much feed does a layer chicken consume?
The following is an example of a feeding program for a 100 birds:
LAYER STRAIGHT FEED
| Feed Type | Period of Feeding | Quantity per Bird | Quantity per 100 Birds | Number of 50kg Bags |
| Chick Starter Mash | 0 to 8 weeks | 2kg | 200kg | 4 |
| Growers Mash | Week 8 to Week 17 | 5kg | 500kg | 10 |
| Goldline Layers Mash | 17 Weeks to end of Production | 110 - 120g/bird/day | 11 -12kg per day | 8 bags per Month |
LAYERS CONCENTATE (Mix by weight)
| Feed Name | Days of Feeding | Mixing Ratio | Quantity of Concentrate per 100 Birds | Quantity of Maize Meal per 100 Birds | Quantity of Mixed Feed Per Bird | Quantity of Mixed Feed Per 100 Birds |
| Chick Starter Concentrate | 0 to 8 Weeks | 2 Parts Concentrate : 3 Parts Maize Meal | 80kg | 120kg | 2kg | 200kg |
| Growers Concentrate | 8 Weeks to 17 Weeks | 2 Parts Concentrate : 3 Parts Maize Meal | 200kg | 300kg | 5kg | 500kg |
| Goldline Layer Concentrate | 17 Weeks to End of Lay | 2 Parts Concentrate: 3 Parts Maize Meal | 50kg | 75kg | 110 – 120g/Day | 360kg/Month |
How much feed should I feed my layer chickens?
- From week 1 to week 18, feed ad libitum
- From 18 weeks onwards, feed 110-120g per bird per day
Apart from stock feed, what else should I give my layers?
As far as nutrition is concerned, you only need to ensure that the birds have adequate feed and water. It is important to make sure that the water system is supplying enough water. When using nipple drinkers, periodically check the flow rate. Remember the birds generally require water that is double the amount of feed they consume.
When do chickens start laying eggs?
When they reach puberty which usually occurs between week 18 to week 22
How many eggs can a layer chicken lay in a year?
- An average layer can lay 330 eggs per year
- It is not possible for a layer to produce more than 1 egg per day
Do chickens need light to lay eggs?
- During laying period, it is encouraged that layers get 16 hours of continuous light and 8 hours of continuous darkness
- Be sure to consult your chick or point of lay supplier for the best lighting management for your specific breed
Can eggs be produced without a male chicken being present?
- Yes! Layers produce eggs without the cockerel and these are referred to as table eggs and cannot hatch
- However, for production of fertilized eggs intended for hatching, breeding birds should have cockerels present at a ratio of 1 cockerel per 8 to 10 hens
How many nest boxes do I need?
- If the birds are in a deep litter system, provide one nest box for every 5 to 6 hens
- Birds in battery cages do not require nest boxes
What vaccines do I need to administer?
Consult your local Veterinarian or your chick supplier for the recommended vaccination program for your flock
What causes a drop in egg production?
There are several factors that may cause reduced productivity from you flock which include but not limited to the following:
- Disease
- Nutritional imbalance e.g. Calcium and Phosphorus
- Reduced feed and water intake
- Stress
- Weather changes
- Sudden change of diet