Method of feeding laying hens

摘要

This invention relates primarily to innovations in methods of feeding laying hens wherein the hens' nutrient reserves and specialized nutritious feeds are utilized so that a uniform rate of egg production can be maintained at substantial economic savings. More specifically, it concerns a feeding program wherein laying hens are fed a ration with vitamins, minerals and a specific low total crude protein for an effective amount of time to reduce the hens' nutrient reserves without reducing their rate of lay and total feed efficiency. The hens are then fed a ration adequate in total crude protein, vitamins and minerals for the remaining feeding time to replenish the nutrient reserves in an efficient manner while maintaining optimum egg production and other performance characteristics.