Treat For Chickens
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Treat For Chickens
Treat For Chickens for Sale including Dried Mealworms, Calgrit, Crickets, Seaweed Meal, Live Mealworms like Super Worms, Mini Mealies, Linseed, Lucerne Pellets, Freeze Dried Crickets for Chickens.
When it comes to treating chickens in Australia, there are a variety of options available that can provide nutritional benefits, entertainment, and enrichment for your flock. Below is a guide to some popular treats and supplements for chickens, including dried mealworms, live mealworms, dried crickets, calgrit, rice flakes, hemp seed, seaweed meal, linseed, lucerne pellets, and Molodri diatomaceous earth.
1. Dried Mealworms
- What it is: Dehydrated larvae of the darkling beetle.
- Benefits: High in protein (around 50%), which supports feather growth, egg production, and overall health.
- How to feed: Sprinkle a handful in their feed or scatter them for foraging.
- Caution: Feed in moderation as too much protein can cause kidney strain.
2. Live Mealworms
- What it is: Live larvae of the darkling beetle.
- Benefits: High in protein and moisture, great for encouraging natural foraging behavior.
- How to feed: Offer in a shallow dish or scatter for chickens to chase and peck.
- Caution: Ensure they are from a reputable source to avoid parasites.
3. Dried Crickets
- What it is: Dehydrated crickets.
- Benefits: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. A great alternative to mealworms.
- How to feed: Mix into feed or scatter for foraging.
- Caution: Like mealworms, feed in moderation.
4. Calgrit
- What it is: Calgrit by Graymont is a calcium supplement for chickens, essential for strong eggshells and bone health. It consists of crushed limestone, providing a high calcium content.
- Benefits: Benefits include improved egg quality, reduced risk of soft-shelled eggs, and enhanced overall health.
- How to feed: Feed Calgrit by mixing it with regular feed or offering it free-choice in a separate container. Ensure chickens have access to grit for proper digestion
- Caution: Avoid over-supplementation, as excessive calcium can lead to kidney damage or imbalances in other nutrients. Provide fresh water at all times. Calgrit is particularly beneficial for laying hens but should be given in moderation to non-laying birds. Always follow recommended guidelines to maintain optimal chicken health.
5. Rice Flakes
- What it is: Flattened, steamed rice grains.
- Benefits: A light, easily digestible carbohydrate source for energy.
- How to feed: Sprinkle over feed or offer as a standalone treat.
- Caution: Avoid uncooked rice, as it can expand in the crop.
6. Hemp Seed
- What it is: Seeds from the hemp plant.
- Benefits: High in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promoting healthy feathers and eggs.
- How to feed: Mix into feed or offer as a treat.
- Caution: Feed in moderation due to high fat content.
7. Seaweed Meal
- What it is: Dried and ground seaweed.
- Benefits: Rich in iodine, vitamins, and minerals. Supports immune health and egg quality.
- How to feed: Mix into feed or sprinkle over treats.
- Caution: Use sparingly to avoid over-supplementation.
8. Linseed (Flaxseed)
- What it is: Seeds from the flax plant.
- Benefits: High in omega-3 fatty acids, which improve egg quality and feather health.
- How to feed: Mix into feed or offer as a treat.
- Caution: Feed in moderation to avoid digestive issues.
9. Lucerne Pellets (Alfalfa Pellets)
- What it is: Compressed alfalfa hay.
- Benefits: High in fiber, protein, and vitamins. Supports digestion and overall health.
- How to feed: Offer in a separate dish or mix with feed.
- Caution: Ensure pellets are fresh and mold-free.
10. Molodri Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
- What it is: A natural powder made from fossilized algae.
- Benefits: Helps control internal and external parasites (e.g., worms, mites). Also provides trace minerals.
- How to feed: Mix a small amount into feed (1-2% of total feed volume).
- Caution: Use only food-grade DE and avoid inhalation.
Tips for Feeding Treats to Chickens
- Moderation is key: Treats should make up no more than 10% of a chicken’s diet.
- Fresh water: Always ensure chickens have access to clean water, especially when feeding dry treats like mealworms or rice flakes.
- Variety: Rotate treats to provide a balanced diet and keep chickens entertained.
- Avoid harmful foods: Never feed chickens avocado, chocolate, onions, or anything moldy or spoiled.
By incorporating these treats into your chickens’ diet, you can keep them healthy, happy, and productive! Always source high-quality products from reputable suppliers to ensure the best outcomes for your flock.
