4m x 3m Omlet pen, cube, new auto door still boxed and coop light

[house-elf]

What is the difference between layers mash and layers pellets and which one is better ?

 

Also I'm creating a list of everything I need to buy in preparation and wondered if any of you have any tips or advice ?

 

Thank you !

[Happy chickens!]

The mash looks more like fine flakes to me and pellets are, well, pellets. Mash takes longer to eat as it's smaller (ideal for battery chickens cooped up in small spaces, gives them something to do).

 

Should be same nutritional content. Best to start them off on whatever they're used to and then if you want to change gradually introduce the new feed. Chickens tend to make more mess with the mash imho.

 

Don't worry about big long lists, food, water and shelter are the main ones, and a comfy chair and camera for you!!!

[Hen Watch]

Ditto above. Water, feed, housing to start with is fine.

 

I have tons of health stuff, wormers, powders and supplments BUT I got them as and when I needed them and not at first. Don't buy everything before hand as you may not use it all as what one person swears by another won't use at all.

 

Good to think about where you will store your feed bags thought. I have mine indoors in the kitchen, but if you store it outside in a shed you will need a metal dustbin with lid, or similar, so stop pests getting at it.

 

My personal top tips for when they are settled in are:

Grit - little bit in a coup cup in their run

Auboise (horse bedding) - to soak up poop in the run and use in the nestbox

Treat bowl - heavy dog bowl or similar so they can't knock it over. My lot only have to set their eyes on it to run over to me.

Garlic powder - a little in the feed reduces poop smell (buy from horse supply shops).