Grit is an essential part of a poultry diet. There are two basic types of grit which are both essential and serve different purposes:
Firstly, insoluble grit, such as Flint Grit, is stored in the bird's crop and is used to aid the grinding up of food and help digestion. Secondly, Soluble grit, such as Oystershell or Sea Shell grit dissolves in the digestive tract and provides absorbable calcium - an essential ingredient for produing eggshells and strong bones.
It is also an established fact that a lack of grit and calcium is a contributory factor when birds develop bad habits such as feather-pecking and other vices - they are trying to obtain the missing calcium in their diet by eating feathers! If ignored, of course, this problem becomes a much worse habit, leading to extensive bleeding and even the death of the victims. If feather-pecking is a problem we recommend that you use Scarper as a deterrent, as well as providing a good supply of grit at all times.
For a free leaflet on 'Feather pecking Solutions' please visit www.scarper.info/downloads.html
Baby Chicks and growing birds don't need quite so much calcium as a layer - but they still need insoluble Flint Grit. Chi
'Chicken Lickin'' CHICK FLINT GRIT is insoluble grit in a specially selected smaller size grade to suitable for baby chicks upwards .
Available in handy 1lt plastic tubs.
