When do I choose 18% protein over 16% protein feed?

Higher protein feeds can be a great option during the winter when your flock is foraging less or losing feathers, aka molting. Did you know feathers contain over 80% protein? It takes a lot of extra protein and energy to grow! Additional protein feeds can also be a good alternative when birds are under stress, such as during the integration of new chickens into a flock. Choosing a 16% or 18% feed depends on what works best for you and your flock.