Whether you're raising chicks in a brooder or letting them grow under a broody hen, this guide walks you through the ideal feeding plan from hatch to point-of-lay.

Weeks 0–6: Chick Starter Feed

From hatch day until about six weeks old, baby chicks should be fed a specially formulated chick starter feed. This high-protein, finely ground crumble provides all the essential nutrients needed during this rapid growth phase.

Key features of chick starter:

• Protein content: 18–20%
  Protein is vital for muscle development, organ growth, and feather formation. The higher protein level supports their fast-paced development.

• Form: Fine crumble
  Chicks cannot handle large pellets or grains. Crumbles are small enough for their tiny beaks and easy to digest.

• Medicated vs. non-medicated:
  Many starter feeds come in a medicated version, typically containing amprolium, which helps prevent coccidiosis—a common and potentially deadly parasitic infection in young chicks. If you're vaccinating chicks against coccidiosis or raising them in a clean, low-risk environment, non-medicated feed may be appropriate. Choose based on your management practices and consult your hatchery or vet if unsure.

• Calcium levels: Low
  Chicks should not have the high calcium levels found in layer feed. Excess calcium can damage developing kidneys and bones.

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Water is just as essential as feed and should be changed daily.

Weeks 6–16: Grower Feed

Around six weeks of age, chicks transition from starter feed to grower feed. This formulation supports continued growth but with slightly lower protein levels, as the rate of development begins to slow.

Key features of grower feed:

• Protein content: 15–17%
  This is enough to support steady muscle and feather development without overwhelming the chicks’ systems.

• Form: Crumble or pellet
  By now, many chicks can handle small pellets, though crumbles remain easier for smaller breeds.

• Medications: Optional
  Most grower feeds are unmedicated. If you began with medicated starter, consult your vet about whether continuing prevention is necessary.

• Calcium levels: Still low
  Calcium must remain at chick-safe levels until egg-laying begins. Never offer layer feed or oyster shell during this time.

If your chicks are on pasture or free-ranging in small amounts, you can begin to supplement with small treats such as finely chopped greens, scrambled egg, or mealworms. However, treats should make up no more than 5–10% of their diet, and any treats should be balanced with grit to aid digestion.

Weeks 16–18: Transition Period

At around 16 to 18 weeks, pullets (young hens) approach the point of lay. Signs include redder combs, increased interest in nesting areas, and occasional squatting behavior. However, it’s still too early to switch to layer feed unless an egg has already been laid.

Continue grower feed until the first egg appears. At that point, their nutritional needs shift to support the demands of laying eggs.

Once a pullet lays her first egg, she can be transitioned to a layer feed with:

• Protein: 16–18%

• Calcium: Higher content (about 3.5%) to support strong eggshell formation

This is also the time to introduce oyster shell or another free-choice calcium supplement, if your flock includes mixed ages or you're feeding an all-flock feed.

What to Avoid Before 18 Weeks

• Layer feed too early:
  Feeding layer feed before the body is ready to produce eggs can result in kidney damage and other health problems due to excess calcium.

• Too many treats:
  Snacks like bread, scratch grain, or table scraps dilute the nutritional value of their balanced feed. Limit treats to occasional, healthy extras and always offer grit to help digest them.

• Poor water quality:
  Growing chicks need fresh, clean water. Dirty waterers can harbor bacteria that hinder growth or lead to illness.

• Moldy or old feed:
  Always store feed in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and nutrient loss. Moldy feed can be fatal.

Healthy Pullets Mean Healthy Hens

By eighteen weeks, your chicks have grown from tiny fluff balls into confident young hens on the verge of laying their first egg. Feeding them correctly during this period is one of the best investments you can make in the long-term success of your flock. Good nutrition in the early months translates to higher egg production, stronger immunity, and longer lifespan in adulthood.

Take pride in the care you give—and get ready to celebrate that first beautiful egg!