What Do Chickens Eat? A Guide to Keeping Your Flock Healthy and Happy

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One of the first questions every backyard chicken keeper asks is, What do chickens eat? Chickens are not only entertaining to watch but are also surprisingly easy to care for when it comes to their diet. Understanding their nutritional needs and preferences is key to raising a thriving flock. In this article, we’ll explore what chickens like most to eat, what their favorite foods are, and the best things to feed chickens to keep them healthy and productive.

Photo by Zosia Szopka on Unsplash

The Basics of a Chicken’s Diet

Chickens are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet should include a mix of grains, proteins, and greens to meet their nutritional needs. A balanced diet ensures they lay high-quality eggs, stay healthy, and have vibrant feathers. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components of a chicken’s diet:

1. Commercial Chicken Feed

Commercial feed is the foundation of a chicken’s diet. It’s specifically formulated to provide the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. There are different types of feed available:

• Starter Feed: High in protein, designed for chicks up to 8 weeks old.
• Grower Feed: Slightly less protein, ideal for young chickens between 8 and 18 weeks old.
• Layer Feed: Includes calcium for strong eggshells, meant for hens of laying age.
• All-Purpose Feed: Suitable for mixed-age flocks but may lack the specific nutrients for layers or chicks.

2. Grains and Seeds

Grains like corn, wheat, and oats are favorites among chickens. These provide energy and help keep your birds warm in cooler weather. Seeds such as sunflower seeds and flaxseeds are also excellent treats packed with nutrients.

3. Protein Sources

Protein is vital for growth, feather development, and egg production. Chickens can get protein from:

• Insects: Chickens love hunting for worms, beetles, and other bugs in the yard.
• Meat Scraps: Small amounts of cooked meat can be given as treats.
• Eggs: Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein, but avoid feeding raw eggs to prevent egg-eating habits.

4. Vegetables and Fruits

Fresh produce is a nutritious addition to your chicken’s diet. Chickens enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, including:

• Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and lettuce are favorites.
• Carrots and Squash: Provide vitamins and are fun for chickens to peck at.
• Berries and Melons: Sweet treats that are especially welcome in summer.

5. Calcium and Grit

Calcium is essential for laying hens to produce strong eggshells. You can offer crushed oyster shells or eggshells as a supplement. Grit, on the other hand, helps chickens digest their food by grinding it in their gizzards. This is especially important if your chickens don’t have access to dirt or small stones.

What Do Chickens Like Most to Eat?

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If you’ve ever thrown a handful of treats into the coop, you’ve probably noticed that chickens have definite preferences. So, what do chickens like most to eat? Here are some of their favorites:

• Mealworms: These protein-packed treats are like candy to chickens. They’ll go crazy for dried or live mealworms.
• Corn: Whether cracked or whole, corn is a favorite, especially in colder months when it helps keep them warm.
• Kitchen Scraps: Leftover rice, pasta, and bread are popular with chickens, but these should be given in moderation.
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are a hit, providing both sweetness and hydration.
• Sunflower Seeds: A nutritious snack that chickens find irresistible.

What Is the Best Thing to Feed Chickens?

The best thing to feed chickens is a well-rounded diet that meets all their nutritional needs. A high-quality commercial feed should always be the mainstay of their diet, but supplementing with fresh foods and treats will keep them happy and healthy. Here are some tips for feeding your flock:

1. Stick to the 90/10 Rule

Treats should make up no more than 10% of a chicken’s diet. Overfeeding treats can lead to obesity and nutritional imbalances. Always ensure they have access to their primary feed.

2. Provide Fresh Water

Chickens need clean, fresh water at all times. Hydration is crucial for digestion, egg production, and overall health.

3. Offer Variety

While commercial feed is essential, offering a variety of grains, greens, and protein sources keeps chickens engaged and ensures they receive a diverse range of nutrients.

4. Avoid Harmful Foods

Some foods are toxic or unhealthy for chickens and should be avoided, including:

• Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to birds.
• Chocolate: Theobromine in chocolate is harmful to chickens.
• Raw Beans: Contain phytohemagglutinin, which is toxic.
• Moldy or Rotten Food: Can cause serious health issues.
• Salty or Sugary Foods: Too much salt or sugar is bad for their health.

Seasonal Feeding Tips

Photo by Jesse Schoff on Unsplash

Chickens’ dietary needs can change with the seasons. Here’s how to adjust their diet throughout the year:

• Winter: Offer extra grains like corn to help them generate body heat. Provide warm treats like oatmeal on cold mornings.
• Spring: Allow access to fresh grass and weeds as they begin to sprout. These are packed with nutrients.
• Summer: Focus on hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumbers. Ensure they have plenty of shade and fresh water.
• Fall: Use garden leftovers like pumpkin and squash to boost their diet before winter sets in.

Conclusion

Understanding what chickens eat is key to raising a healthy and happy flock. From commercial feed to kitchen scraps, chickens thrive on a varied diet that includes grains, proteins, fruits, and vegetables. By paying attention to what chickens like most to eat and their favorite foods, you can keep them satisfied and productive. Remember, the best thing to feed chickens is a balanced diet tailored to their needs, ensuring they reward you with fresh eggs and delightful companionship for years to come.