How much does a chicken eat?
A laying hen of a standard breed eats roughly a quarter pound (about 100–115 g) of complete layer feed a day, according to the University of Kentucky and Utah State extension services. Big breeds eat a little more, bantams about half as much, and every bird eats more in cold weather to stay warm.
Feed by life stage
| Age | Feed type | Typical protein |
|---|---|---|
| 0–6/8 weeks | Chick starter | 18–20% |
| 8 weeks to first egg | Grower (or starter/grower) | 15–18% |
| First egg onward (~18–22 weeks) | Layer, with oyster shell on the side | 16% |
Avoid switching to layer feed before hens start laying. Its extra calcium isn't good for growing pullets. Many keepers with mixed flocks feed an "all-flock" ration and offer oyster shell free-choice instead.
Cutting the feed bill without shortchanging hens
- Use a feeder that stops billing out and spills. Wasted feed is often 10–30% of the bag.
- Store feed in a metal can with a lid to keep out rodents and moisture.
- Keep scratch grains and kitchen scraps to a small share of the diet (about 10%) so hens still get balanced nutrition.
Gear that helps
- No-waste treadle or port feeder
- Galvanized metal feed storage can
- Oyster shell dispenser
- Bulk 50 lb layer feed (local farm store often beats online)
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a 50 lb bag of feed last for 6 chickens?
About 33 days for standard hens eating 0.25 lb each per day, and a little less in winter.
Should feed be available all day?
Most keepers leave feed out free-choice during daylight. Chickens eat to meet their energy needs and don't usually overeat a balanced ration.
Sources
- University of Kentucky, ASC-191: How Much Will My Chickens Eat?
- Utah State University Extension: Principles of Feeding Small Flocks
Last reviewed October 2026. These are planning estimates for hobby flocks. For sick birds, contact a poultry vet or your state extension office.