Backyard chickens are omnivores, thriving on a varied diet of grains, vegetables, fruits, protein sources like bugs and meat, and kitchen scraps. This comprehensive guide will cover their diet, how much they need to eat, what foods to avoid, and a look at how their diet has evolved over time.
A Historical Shift: From Meat Scraps to Grain-Based Diets
Before the 1950s, backyard chickens were largely fed kitchen scraps, including meat, along with whatever insects and plants they could forage. They were often used as waste recyclers, cleaning up leftovers around the farm. However, with the rise of commercial poultry farming in the mid-20th century, the focus shifted to grain-based diets. This change was driven by the need for more consistent egg production and better nutritional control. Today, most backyard chickens are fed primarily on commercial grain-based feeds, but supplementing their diet with protein sources like insects and meat can mimic their natural foraging behavior and promote health.
What Do Backyard Chickens Like to Eat?
- Grains and Seeds
- Corn: Provides energy but should be given in moderation.
- Wheat, Oats, and Barley: Great for fiber and balanced nutrition.
- Sunflower Seeds: Packed with fats and proteins, especially helpful during molting.
- Vegetables and Fruits
- Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, lettuce, and cabbage are favorites packed with vitamins.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots and beets are nutritious and can be fed raw or cooked.
- Fruits: Apples (without seeds), berries, and watermelon are nutrient-rich, hydrating treats.
- Proteins
- Insects and Worms: Chickens naturally forage for insects, worms, and mealworms, which are high in protein.
- Meat Scraps: Small amounts of cooked lean meat can be offered. Avoid fatty or processed meat.
- Cooked Eggs: A great protein boost, but they should always be cooked to prevent chickens from developing a taste for raw eggs.
- Kitchen Scraps
- Bread, Pasta, and Rice: Occasionally, these can be given as treats but without salt or seasoning.
- Cooked Vegetables: Unseasoned and unsalted leftovers are perfect for chickens.
How Much Should Chickens Eat?
An average adult chicken consumes 1/4 to 1/3 pound of feed per day. High-quality commercial poultry feed should make up the bulk of their diet, with treats and supplemental foods only accounting for 10%. Free-range chickens will forage for bugs, grasses, and other natural food sources to diversify their diet.
- Laying Hens: Ensure they have access to a calcium source, such as layer feed or crushed oyster shells, to support strong eggshell production.
- Water: Fresh water should be available at all times, especially during hot months.
Foods and Plants to Avoid
Some foods are toxic to chickens and should be kept out of their reach:
- Avocado (Pit and Skin): Contains persin, a toxic compound.
- Chocolate and Caffeine: Both contain theobromine, which is harmful.
- Onions and Garlic: Large amounts can lead to digestive upset and anemia.
- Green Potatoes and Tomato Plants: Contain solanine, which is toxic.
- Citrus Fruits: May cause digestive issues.
- Uncooked Beans: These contain hemagglutinin, a toxin that can disrupt digestion.
- Processed Foods: Avoid salty or fatty foods like chips or fast food scraps.
Plants to avoid include foxglove, nightshade, and rhubarb leaves, which can be toxic if consumed.
