How Much Feed Do Laying Hens Need Per Day in Winter? (By Flock Size)

Quick answer: daily feed amounts (simple table)

Most laying hens will eat roughly 100–150g of layers pellets/mash per hen per day.

Use this as a starting point, then adjust based on your flock, free-ranging, and the weather.

If your feeders are empty very early every day, increase slightly. If there's lots left over, reduce.

Stocking up for winter? Browse chicken feed.

Why hens eat more in winter

A few reasons winter feed use often goes up:

• They burn more energy keeping warm

• They may forage less

• Wet ground and wind can make them less active, so they rely more on what you provide

Just remember: eating more doesn't always mean laying more. Winter laying is heavily affected by daylight hours.

Layers pellets vs mash vs mixed corn (what's for what)

Keep it simple:

• Layers pellets/mash: your main feed (balanced for laying hens)

• Mixed corn/scratch: an extra, often used as a small evening feed in cold weather

If you're trying to keep egg production steady, make sure layers feed stays the bulk of what they eat.

If you want grit/scratch options in one place, this collection is handy: poultry grit and scratch.

Treats and extras: how much is too much?

Treats are fine — but too many can:

• Reduce intake of balanced layers feed

• Increase waste/spillage

• Attract unwanted visitors

A practical rule: treats should be a small extra, not a replacement meal.

Reducing feed waste (and deterring unwanted visitors)

Feed waste is money on the floor — and it's a magnet for pests.

Try:

• Use a feeder that reduces scratching and flicking feed out, like the options in poultry feeders and drinkers

• Don't overfill feeders (top up little-and-often)

• Keep feed off the ground and under cover

• Clear up spilled feed daily

• Store bags in sealed containers with tight lids using practical farmyard feeding equipment

If the problem is persistent, it's worth tackling storage and routine together (not just one).

When to adjust feed (age, breed, free-ranging)

You may need to adjust up or down if:

• You have large breeds vs bantams

• Birds are free-ranging and finding extra food

• It's a severe cold snap

• You've got older hens or birds in moult

If you're unsure, aim for steady condition and consistent droppings, and avoid sudden big changes.

FAQs

How many grams of feed does a hen eat per day?

A common range is 100–150g per hen per day for layers pellets/mash, then adjust based on your flock and conditions.

Do chickens need more feed when it's freezing?

Often yes, because they use more energy keeping warm. Increase gradually if needed.

Can I feed mixed corn every day?

Many keepers offer a small amount in the evening in winter, but it shouldn't replace layers feed.

What should I feed hens in the morning vs evening?

Morning: layers feed first. Evening: a small extra like mixed corn can be used in cold weather.

Why are my hens hungry all the time?

Cold weather, moulting, and reduced foraging can all increase appetite. Check you're feeding enough layers feed and that water is always available.

Can too many treats stop hens laying?

They can reduce intake of balanced feed, which may affect condition and laying. Keep treats modest.

How do I stop chickens wasting feed?

Use a suitable feeder, avoid overfilling, keep feed off wet ground, and clear up spillages.

How do I keep rats away from feeders?

Reduce spillage, don't leave feed out overnight, and store feed in sealed containers.

Helpful links

• Chicken feed

• Poultry grit and scratch

• Poultry feeders and drinkers

• Farmyard feeding equipment