How much feed does a laying hen need per day?

A standard-sized laying hen typically consumes 0.25 to 0.30 lb (about 4 to 5 oz or 110 to 130 g) of feed per day. Large breeds such as Jersey Giants can eat up to 0.35 lb per day, while bantams eat as little as 0.12 to 0.15 lb per day. Actual consumption varies with ambient temperature, egg production rate, and whether free-range foraging supplements the diet.

Do chicks eat less than adult hens?

Yes. Day-old chicks start at roughly 0.02 lb of feed per day and gradually increase as they grow. By week 4 they consume about 0.08 lb per day, and by week 8 (end of the brooder stage) around 0.13 lb per day for standard breeds. The calculator uses average figures across the 0-8 week chick phase.

What is the difference between pullet feed and layer feed?

Pullet grower feed (weeks 8-18) has moderate protein (16-18%) and low calcium to support skeletal growth without stressing immature kidneys. Layer feed (18+ weeks) contains 16-18% protein plus 3.5-4.5% calcium to support eggshell formation. Switching to layer feed too early can cause kidney damage in pullets, while feeding layer feed to non-laying birds wastes calcium.

How much feed does a broiler need per day?

Broilers (Cornish Cross type) are high-growth birds with an elevated feed intake. They average 0.25 lb per day across a 6-8 week grow-out cycle, but consumption ramps up sharply in the final two weeks — finishing birds can eat 0.40 to 0.50 lb per day. The calculator uses a weighted daily average across the full cycle.

Should I free-feed or portion chickens?

Laying hens do best with free-choice (ad libitum) access to a complete layer feed. They self-regulate intake well and over-restriction reduces egg production. Broilers are also typically free-fed. Portion control is sometimes used with meat breeds prone to obesity or when managing feed costs, but must be balanced carefully to avoid nutritional deficiency.

Does weather affect how much feed chickens need?

Yes. Chickens burn more calories in cold weather to maintain body temperature and will eat 5-15% more feed below 50°F (10°C). In hot weather above 85°F (29°C), appetite drops and hens may eat 10-20% less, which can reduce egg production. These figures represent average temperate-climate consumption; adjust accordingly for your climate.

Chicken Feed Calculator

Name: Chicken Feed Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter your flock size, breed size, and production stage to instantly calculate daily and weekly feed amounts plus estimated feed cost.

Flock Details

Number of Chickens

Breed Body Size

Production Stage

Feed Price per Pound (optional, for cost estimate)

Fill in the flock details on the left and click Calculate to see your feed requirements.

Feed Requirements

Per Bird / Day

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lb / day

Total Flock / Day

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lb / day

Total Flock / Week

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lb / week

50 lb Bag Lasts

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days

Recommended Feed Type

Metric Equivalents (grams)

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Summary