Complete Guide to the Effects and Selection of Oyster Shells for Chickens｜Strengthening Eggshells, Maintaining Health, and How to Feed Without Mistakes

“Are your chickens laying eggs with thinner shells every day?” “Are you worried about your chickens’ health?” “Not sure which oyster shell to choose?” If any of these concerns sound familiar, you’re not alone. In fact, during the laying period, chickens require about 4g of calcium per day, and eggshells are made up of 94–97% calcium. If calcium deficiency is left unaddressed, eggshell strength will drop dramatically, leading to fractures, decreased productivity, and even higher medical and rearing costs than you might expect.

Oyster shells, especially when you choose coarse granules (2–4mm), have been scientifically proven to improve eggshell strength and bone density. Studies have also shown that using the right granule size and feeding amount can reduce the rate of broken eggs by half.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific basis for oyster shells, how to feed them, tips on effective selection, cost comparisons, and practical answers to common questions—all the latest information you need to keep your chickens healthy. By reading to the end, you’ll be sure to find the perfect way to use oyster shells for your flock.

What Are Oyster Shells? The Essential Reason and Scientific Basis for Chicken Health

Oyster shells are an indispensable source of calcium for chickens, especially in terms of egg production and maintaining overall health. Laying hens in particular need large amounts of calcium each day, which is directly linked to eggshell formation and bone health. Made from natural ingredients, oyster shells are easily digested and absorbed, and because chickens can self-regulate their intake, the risk of excessive consumption is low. If eggshells become thin or bone fractures increase, calcium deficiency is usually the main cause. Keeping oyster shells available at all times helps reduce these risks and creates an environment where healthy, high-quality eggs can be produced consistently.

The Amount and Role of Calcium Required by Chickens

Chickens need about 2g of calcium for each egg they lay. This is more than can be supplied by their regular diet alone, so especially during high production periods, external supplements are essential.

• Eggshell formation: Calcium is the main component of eggshells and determines their strength and quality.
• Bone health maintenance: If calcium is drawn from bones, the risk of fractures and dislocations increases.
• Sustained laying ability: Adequate calcium helps extend the laying period and prevent eggshell cracking.

For these reasons, supplementing calcium with oyster shells is directly linked to maintaining chicken health and improving egg quality.

Calcium Demand Curve and Peak Timing During the Laying Period

Chickens’ need for calcium rises sharply right after they begin laying. During the peak laying period (around 5–7 months of age), daily calcium consumption is at its highest. Because eggshells are formed at night, it’s important to provide oyster shells or similar supplements on a free-choice basis so chickens don’t run low on calcium during this time.

• Just after laying begins: Calcium demand surges
• Peak period: Calcium intake is at its highest
• After laying ends: Demand gradually decreases

Thus, it’s essential to ensure a constant supply of calcium sources during the laying period.

Comparison of Oyster Shells, Grit, and Limestone Components

For chickens’ health, not only calcium but also grit (to aid digestion) is important. The differences between oyster shells, grit, and limestone are summarized in the table below.

Type	Main Component	Primary Role	Supply Method	Absorption Rate
Oyster Shells	Calcium carbonate (about 38%)	Eggshell formation, bone maintenance	Always available, free-choice	Slow
Grit	Small stones (insoluble)	Aids digestion	Always available in separate container	Not absorbed
Limestone	Calcium carbonate (about 36%)	Eggshell formation, bone maintenance	Mixed into feed, free-choice	Relatively fast

• Oyster shells are ideal for eggshell formation, with slow absorption.
• Grit is used by the digestive organs to grind food, not for calcium supplementation.
• Limestone is another calcium source, but is absorbed faster than oyster shells and is less sustained.

As you can see, it’s important to choose the right supplement for your purpose to protect your chickens’ health and egg quality.

Effects of Oyster Shells: Proven Data on Eggshell Strength Improvement and Productivity

Oyster shell plays a vital role in the laying environment for chickens. Its main component, calcium, is essential for eggshell formation, and it is indispensable for hens to lay strong, healthy eggs consistently every day. By providing sufficient calcium to laying hens, you can greatly reduce issues with thin or easily broken eggshells. Furthermore, continuous intake of oyster shell has been proven to improve both the laying rate and the survival rate.

Main Effects

• Improved eggshell thickness and breaking strength
• Maintenance and enhancement of laying rate and productivity
• Support for bone and cardiovascular health

The following table summarizes the main benefits of feeding oyster shell.

Effect	Details
Eggshell Reinforcement	Prevents thin or easily broken eggshells
Maintenance of Bone Density	Replenishes calcium lost from bones during laying
Productivity Improvement	Stabilizes egg quality and quantity
Health Promotion	Supports cardiovascular and overall health

Effects on Eggshell Thickness, Breaking Strength, and Measurement Methods

Supplementing with oyster shell directly affects the thickness and strength of eggshells. Especially during the laying period, hens require more than 2g of calcium per day; if this is insufficient, eggshells become thin and prone to breaking. When oyster shell is provided for free access, chickens can consume the amount they need, reducing the risk of excessive intake.

Eggshell strength and thickness are objectively evaluated using breaking tests with specialized equipment or by measuring with micrometers. Regular measurement can also help improve rearing environments and feeding methods.

Example Measurement Items

• Eggshell thickness (measured in millimeters)
• Breaking strength (measured in pressure units)

Effects by Particle Size: The Superiority of Large Particles (2-4mm)

The particle size of oyster shell affects how efficiently chickens absorb calcium. In particular, 2–4mm large particles dissolve slowly in the stomach, providing a sustained calcium supply even during nighttime eggshell formation. Compared to finely crushed powder types, large particles are more effective at strengthening eggshells.

Particle Size Comparison

Particle Size	Features	Recommended Use
2–4mm	Dissolves slowly, provides calcium over time	Laying hens
Under 1mm	Dissolves quickly but is less efficiently absorbed	Supplemental use

Effects on Bone Density and Cardiovascular Health

Chickens in the laying period use a large amount of calcium for eggshell formation, making them susceptible to decreased bone density. By continuously providing oyster shell, you can prevent excessive calcium loss from bones and reduce the risk of fractures. In addition, calcium is involved in maintaining cardiovascular health, contributing to the overall health management of chickens.

Main Benefits for Bones and Cardiovascular System

• Reduced risk of fractures
• Maintenance of long-term laying ability
• Prevention of poor health and sudden death

As you can see, oyster shell plays an important role not only in improving eggshell quality but also in maintaining the overall health of chickens.

How to Choose Oyster Shell: A Complete Guide to Form, Quality, and Certification

To protect your chickens’ health and improve eggshell quality, choosing the right oyster shell is crucial. Factors such as form, quality, and certification greatly affect both effectiveness and safety. Here, we will explain in detail the key points for selecting the optimal oyster shell to match various rearing styles and purposes.

Flake, Large Granule, or Powder: Comparison by Suitable Chicken Type

There are three main types of oyster shell: flake, large granule, and powder, each suited to different types of chickens and uses. Check the table below for the differences.

Shape	Features	Suitable Chicken Types	Advantages	Disadvantages
Flake	2–4mm thin flakes, slow digestion and absorption	Laying hens, adult hens	Easy to adjust the required amount	May be too large for chicks
Coarse Granules	Large granules (3–5mm), for small and large breeds	Adult hens, large breeds	Long-lasting calcium supply	Requires strong beak to crush
Powder	Fine powder, very rapid digestion	Chicks, weakened chickens	Rapid calcium supplementation	Risk of overconsumption

Recommended Points

• For laying hens and healthy adult chickens, flakes or coarse granules that allow for sustained absorption are ideal.
• Powdered types are convenient for chicks or chickens in poor health, but be careful not to overfeed.

The Importance of Organic Certification and Heavy Metal Reduction

To choose safe, high-quality oyster shells, always check for organic certification and whether heavy metal reduction processing has been performed. In recent years, the risk of heavy metal contamination due to environmental pollution has been pointed out, making food safety even more important.

• Organic certification: Proof that the product is processed without pesticides or additives. Enhances the safety of both chickens and their eggs.
• Heavy metal reduction: By choosing products that meet residue standards for harmful substances such as cadmium and lead, you can prevent health damage to your chickens.
• Manufacturer disclosure: Shells that clearly state their country of production or origin offer greater peace of mind.

Tips for Choosing

1. Check for certification marks or inspection labels on the package or in the product description.
2. Purchase from trusted brands or specialty stores.
3. If in doubt, contact the seller directly to obtain safety information.

Cost-Performance Analysis by Package Size

By selecting the optimal package size according to the scale of poultry keeping and frequency of use, you can greatly improve cost performance. Here is a comparison of the features by main package sizes.

Size	Approx. Number of Birds	Price Range (Estimate)	Cost Performance	Recommended Retailers
1kg bag	2–5 birds	400–700 yen	Small amount, expensive	Home centers, online shops
5kg bag	10–20 birds	1,000–1,800 yen	Standard	JA (co-ops), specialty stores, Amazon
20kg bag	50 birds or more	3,000–5,000 yen	Large, economical	Commercial use, Tractor Supply, etc.
50lbs bag	100 birds or more	5,000–8,000 yen	Cheapest for commercial use	Bulk sales, agricultural supply stores

Cost-Saving Tips

• If you keep many chickens, buying in bulk or large packages is overwhelmingly more economical.
• Take advantage of online store sales or free shipping campaigns at sites like Amazon, Walmart, and Rural King.
• It’s also wise to regularly check prices and stock at nearby stores (searching “oyster shells for chickens near me”).

The Right Way to Feed: Optimizing Timing, Quantity, and Method

For chickens, oyster shell is an essential source of calcium needed for strong eggshells and overall health. The most recommended method of feeding is the “free-choice system,” where chickens can consume it whenever they need it. Especially for hens that have started laying, providing oyster shell consistently every day improves egg quality and supports bone and general health. Oyster shell should not be mixed into feed, but instead offered in a separate container. This allows you to adjust the amount according to each chicken’s laying status and health, which is a major advantage.

FCR and Productivity Comparison: Free-Choice vs Feed-Mixed Methods

Oyster shell feeding is divided into the “free-choice method” and the “feed-mixed method.” With the free-choice method, chickens can consume as needed, reducing the risk of overconsumption. The feed-mixed method supplies oyster shell uniformly, making it harder to accommodate individual differences among birds. In terms of FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio) and productivity, the free-choice method is expected to improve eggshell quality and survival rates.

Feeding Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
Free-Choice	Birds adjust intake as needed; stable eggshell strength	Requires installation of feeding containers
Feed-Mixed	Less labor, suitable for large flocks	Hard to accommodate individual differences; risk of overconsumption

Age-Based Guidelines: From Pullets to Older Hens

The required amount of oyster shell varies depending on the chicken’s age and laying status.

• Pullets (before laying): Do not provide oyster shell.
• Start of laying to older hens: Allow free access, aiming for 2–5g per bird per day.
• Older hens: Continue providing for bone density maintenance.

During periods of higher laying rates, or if you notice eggshells becoming thinner, it’s important to review the amount and type (flake or crushed) of oyster shell provided. Adjust the optimal feeding amount according to the chickens’ growth stage and health condition.

Building a Feeding Station and Key Observation Points

When setting up a feeding station, place a dedicated container in an area where chickens can freely access the oyster shell without stress. Since containers can get dirty easily, keep them clean and avoid moisture or mold. If you have multiple birds, it’s effective to prepare several containers to prevent competition.

Key observation points include:

• Are chickens frequently eating the oyster shell?
• Are there any abnormalities, such as thin or cracked eggshells?
• Check the remaining amount and cleanliness daily.

If any abnormalities are observed, review the type or location of the oyster shell and strive to maintain the chickens’ health.

Buying Guide: A Real Comparison of Regions, Shops, and Prices

The price and convenience of oyster shell for chickens vary greatly depending on where and how much you buy. To choose the best purchasing method, this section compares major online shopping sites and physical stores, international availability, and the cost performance of bulk packs. When buying, consider your chickens’ health and egg quality, and select the option best suited to your rearing environment.

Differences Between Online (Amazon/Walmart) and In-Store (Tractor Supply/Rural King) Shopping

Oyster shell can be purchased both online and at physical stores, each with its own features.

Shop	Price Range	Advantages	Disadvantages
Amazon	From ¥1,500	Nationwide delivery, wide selection, reviews available	Delivery may take a few days
Walmart	From ¥1,200	In-store pickup, special sales	Stock varies by region
Tractor Supply	From ¥1,500	Well-stocked stores, advice from staff	Few stores in rural areas
Rural King	From ¥1,400	Bulk packs for business use, same-day takeout	Few stores in urban areas

• Advantages of Online Shopping: Home delivery and easy comparison via reviews make it ideal for busy people. Searching for “oyster shells for chickens amazon” or “oyster shells for chickens walmart” yields a wide variety of options.
• Strengths of Physical Stores: You can consult staff directly and quickly restock as needed. For those in rural areas or wishing to buy in bulk, Tractor Supply and Rural King are convenient choices.

International Availability: Australia/Canada/South Africa Edition

Oyster shell is widely distributed outside Japan as well, with recommended purchasing options available in each country.

• Australia: Available at Aussie Chook Supplies and large home centers. Organic and flake types are also available.
• Canada: Can be obtained at poultry supply specialty stores and through online shopping. If you search for “oyster shells for chickens canada,” you’ll find many local shops.
• South Africa: Search with the keyword “oyster shells for chickens south africa” at agricultural supply stores or online. Many shops offer delivery even to areas outside major cities.

In each country, commercial 50lbs (about 22.7kg) packs are often available, making them suitable for long-term use or keeping multiple birds.

Long-Term Cost Savings with 50lbs Commercial Bags

Oyster shells are priced very differently depending on whether you buy small bags or large commercial sacks. For those prioritizing cost performance, the 50lbs (22.7kg) pack is by far the best option.

Capacity	Price Estimate	Cost per 1kg	Recommended Use Case
5kg Small Bag	From ¥900	About ¥180	For a small flock or beginners
22.7kg Bag	From ¥2,800	About ¥123	For multiple birds or long-term keepers
50lbs Bag	From ¥3,000	About ¥120	For poultry farmers or group keepers

• Advantages of Large Capacity: If you use a few grams per bird daily, a 50lbs bag can reliably last for several months to half a year or more. This reduces purchase frequency and keeps the cost per kilogram down.
• Storability: If stored away from humidity, quality can be preserved for a long time.

As you can see, by selecting the optimal purchasing method and volume for your needs and flock size, you can smartly safeguard both your chickens’ health and your household budget.

Alternatives in Use: Effectiveness of Eggshells, Seashells, and Limestone

Popular alternatives for calcium supplementation in chickens include eggshells, seashells, and limestone. Each has distinct characteristics and effects, so it’s important to choose with the right knowledge.

Alternative	Calcium Content	Dissolution Rate	Advantages	Notes & Risks
Eggshell	About 95%	Slow	Zero cost by reusing at home	Strict hygiene required, bacteria risk
Seashell	About 38%	Moderate	Same effect as oyster shell, easy to obtain	Variations in particle size and purity
Limestone	About 36%	Fast	Inexpensive, available in bulk, fast-acting	Risk of health issues if overfed

Eggshells excel in recyclability but require attention to hygiene. Seashells have effects similar to oyster shells, while limestone is fast-acting but should not be overfed.

The Process and Hygiene Management of Homemade Roasted Eggshells

When using eggshells as a calcium source for chickens, thorough heat treatment is crucial. Heating greatly reduces the risk of bacteria and salmonella.

1. Wash the shells well and remove the inner membrane
2. Dry them thoroughly
3. Roast in an oven at 180°C (about 350°F) for about 10 minutes
4. Let them cool completely and then crush into small pieces
5. Offer in a separate container in sizes easy for chickens to eat

Key Points

• The heating process reliably eliminates hygiene risks
• Not crushing too finely helps prevent egg-eating habits

Comparison of Dissolution Rate and Safety: Seashells vs. Limestone

The speed and safety of calcium supply are directly linked to maintaining the health of chickens. It’s important to accurately understand the characteristics of each material.

Material	Dissolution Rate	Absorption in Body	Safety
Eggshell	Slow	Sustained	Must be heat sterilized
Seashell	Moderate	Good	Watch for quality and purity
Limestone	Fast	Immediate effect	Beware of excessive intake

Eggshell and seashell, which dissolve slowly, can provide a stable supply of calcium over a long period. Limestone is absorbed quickly and thus tends to result in rapid intake, so the amount should be monitored carefully.

Adaptation by Chicken Type and Case Studies of Failures

The suitability of calcium alternatives varies depending on the type of chicken and the purpose of keeping them. In particular, laying hens versus pullets and roosters require very different approaches.

• Laying hens: All options—eggshell, seashell, and limestone—are usable. Especially when offered free-choice, hens can self-regulate their intake, making it a safe method.
• Pullets & roosters: Should not be given calcium, as there is a risk of excessive intake.

Common Failure Cases

• Salmonella infection occurred after feeding unbaked eggshells
• Excessive limestone caused kidney strain
• Oversized particles led to increased feed leftovers

Selecting the right material and feeding method for each chicken type and stage of growth is essential for healthy management.

Troubleshooting: Addressing Poor Intake, Overconsumption, and Abnormal Signs

Techniques to Encourage Reluctant Chickens

If chickens are not eating oyster shells, the following approaches can help them begin to consume naturally:

• Feeding Location Adjustment
  Place the oyster shells alongside feed and in the chickens’ usual path to encourage intentional intake.
• Particle Size Adjustment
  If the particles are too large, they are difficult to eat. Choosing fine particles around 2–4 mm is key.
• Mixing Timing
  At first, lightly mix oyster shell into the feed to help chickens get accustomed to it. Later, return to a free-choice method in a separate container to encourage voluntary intake.

Offering oyster shells at the onset of laying is most effective. Even if chickens show little interest at first, adjusting the environment and setup can gradually increase their intake.

Signs of Overconsumption and Ways to Protect Kidney Function

Overconsumption of oyster shell can negatively impact a chicken’s health, so daily observation is crucial. The main signs and responses are as follows:

Signs of Overconsumption	Main Symptoms	Points for Kidney Protection
Increased water intake	Frequent drinking	Provide plenty of clean water
Diarrhea or soft droppings	Whitish stools	Adjust the amount of calcium in feed
Loss of appetite	Reduced feed intake	Monitor and control total intake
Swelling or walking issues	Swollen joints, instability	Consult a veterinarian as needed

In particular, it is important to partition feeding areas and observe carefully to prevent pullets or roosters that are not laying from accidentally consuming calcium.

Diagnostic Flow for Abnormal Eggs (Thin-Shelled or Damaged Eggs)

If eggshells become thin or the number of broken eggs increases, refer to the following diagnostic flow to identify the cause.

1. Check Oyster Shell Supply

• Is it available at all times free-choice?
• Is the calcium content in the feed appropriate?

1. Check Age and Laying Status of Chickens

• Calcium demand increases during peak laying and in older hens, so supplementary supply may be necessary.

1. Check for Other Nutritional Imbalances

• Deficiency in vitamin D or excess phosphorus can also cause eggshell problems, so ensure a well-balanced diet.

1. Presence of Health Issues or Stress Factors

• Extreme temperature changes, overcrowding, or stress from illness can also cause eggshell abnormalities.

If you notice eggshell abnormalities, go through the above points one by one, and as needed, review your feeding methods and husbandry environment to help support the production of healthy eggs.

Integrated Health Management: Comprehensive Husbandry Program Utilizing Oyster Shell

To consistently maintain your chickens’ health and the quality of their eggshells, it is essential to use oyster shell in a planned manner. Especially for laying hens, providing adequate calcium helps prevent bone fractures and thin eggshells. Ideally, oyster shell should be available at all times in a separate container near the feeding area, allowing chickens to consume as much as they need.

The table below summarizes the key points to consider when introducing oyster shell.

Management Item	Recommendations
Oyster Shell Placement	Provide at all times in a separate container from feed
Target Chickens	Hens that are laying or preparing to lay
Recommended Amount	Supplement 2–4g per bird per day as a guideline
Combination with Other Supplements	Use together with grit (insoluble) to support both digestion and calcium intake

Continued supplementation with oyster shell is especially important for breeds prone to calcium deficiency or those with high egg production rates.

Maximizing Effects with Vitamin D and Manganese

Calcium supplementation with oyster shell alone does not maximize calcium absorption and utilization in chickens. To further improve absorption rates and eggshell quality, it is recommended to supplement with both vitamin D and manganese.

• Vitamin D: Helps with calcium absorption and supports the formation of bones and eggshells.
• Manganese: Necessary for strengthening eggshell membranes and normal bone development.

Regularly check whether your feed is well-balanced with these nutrients by reviewing your husbandry environment and feed manufacturer’s information. Pay particular attention to vitamin D, as deficiencies are more likely during winter or when raising chickens indoors with limited sunlight.

Record Keeping and Regular Inspection Schedule

To maintain stable egg production and chicken health, daily record keeping and regular health checks are essential. If eggshells start to become thin or there is a sudden drop in egg production, it may be necessary to reassess your calcium and other mineral balances.

• Items to Record
• Number of eggs laid and condition of eggshells
• Consumption of oyster shell and supplements
• Changes in chickens’ physical condition or behavior
• Examples of Regular Checks
• Monthly body weight measurements
• Twice-yearly blood tests to check calcium and vitamin D levels

By practicing such management, you can detect abnormalities early and respond quickly, helping you maintain a healthy flock over the long term.

Recovery Cases: Older Chickens and Low-Production Periods

Even older chickens or those with declining productivity often show recovery in eggshell quality and overall health with the proper supplementation of oyster shell, vitamin D, and manganese.

• Key Points from Recovery Cases
• Oyster shell was placed in a separate container, allowing chickens to adjust their intake themselves
• The amounts of vitamin D and manganese in feed were reviewed, and supplements were added as needed
• Improvements in eggshell thickness and egg production were observed after about two weeks

These cases show that attentive daily management and nutritional balance adjustments can extend your chickens’ healthy lifespan and lead to sustainable egg production.

Practical Q&A: Experts Answer Actual Questions from Keepers

Is oyster shell needed every day?

For laying hens, it is recommended to make oyster shell available at all times for free-choice intake. Chickens will self-regulate their intake according to their needs, so there is little risk of over- or under-consumption, which helps strengthen eggshells and maintain bone health. If eggshells become thin or break easily, it is a sign of calcium deficiency and should be addressed promptly. Oyster shell is generally not necessary for chickens other than laying hens.

How should it be prepared, and what are the limits of homemade substitutes?

Commercially available oyster shell is sold in granules about 2–4 mm in size and can be given as is without any problem. As a homemade alternative, you can bake and crush eggshells, but commercial products are recommended in terms of calcium absorption efficiency and sterilization. Eggshells carry a risk of bacterial contamination, and even with thorough heating and sterilization, they cannot match the stability of commercial options.

What if chickens don’t eat it? How much should they get?

If your chickens aren’t eating much oyster shell, it may be because their feed already contains enough calcium. As a guideline, an ideal intake for a laying hen is about 3–4g per day. There’s little risk of overfeeding, as chickens will self-regulate their intake. Observe their behavior and check the condition of the eggshells and the health of your chickens.

Is grit also necessary?

Grit (insoluble minerals such as small stones) is essential to aid your chickens’ digestion. Since oyster shell (soluble calcium) serves a different purpose, it’s important to provide both. Offer grit and oyster shell in separate containers so chickens can choose as needed.

Where to buy and best storage practices?

Oyster shell is easily obtained at feed supply stores, home centers, and online (Amazon, Walmart, Tractor Supply, etc.). Large bags (50 lbs) and organic options are also available. To maintain quality over time, store in a clean container away from moisture. After opening, seal tightly and keep away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Where to Buy	Size Example	Features
Tractor Supply	50 lbs	Large quantity, low cost
Amazon	5–25 lbs	Wide variety, fast ship
Walmart	10–50 lbs	In-store/online options

Are there risks with imported or large-quantity products?

Imported or bulk packs offer good cost performance, but you should check if the raw material source and manufacturing controls are reliable. Quality can deteriorate if exposed to moisture or stored long-term, so pay attention to packaging seal and storage location. For imported products, particle size and purity can differ by region, so be sure to purchase from a trusted seller.

How to check its effectiveness easily?

To confirm effectiveness, regularly check eggshell thickness, tendency to crack, and changes in egg production rate. If shells are strong and hard to break, and your chickens remain vigorous, you’re providing adequate calcium. Observe the following points regularly:

• Shell thickness and hardness
• Number and regularity of eggs laid
• Chicken vitality and walking condition

Side effects or emergency response?

Oyster shell has a relatively low risk of overdose, but feeding large amounts to young or male chickens can strain their kidneys and digestive system. If you notice any abnormalities, stop immediately and consult a veterinarian. Also, avoid using any product that develops mold or an unusual odor during storage.

Is it suitable for broilers or young chickens?

Oyster shell is generally unnecessary for broilers or pre-laying pullets. Excess calcium can cause growth problems and stress internal organs, so it should not be given. It is intended only for hens after they begin laying.

Final recommended feeding plan

• Provide oyster shell free-choice at all times to laying hens
• Always offer grit in a separate container
• Choose commercial, high-purity granulated types and store away from moisture
• Regularly monitor eggs and chicken health, adjusting quantity and environment as needed

With this plan, you can reliably support your chickens’ health and stable egg production.