Adding Variety to Your Chickens’ Treats: A Beginner’s Guide

Guest Post By Karen Howeth - What the Clucks Up

Instagram: @WhatTheClucksUp

When you’re a new chicken keeper, figuring out what you can give your chickens as a treat can be a little overwhelming. Their complete poultry feed should always be the main part of their diet, but chickens are omnivores and naturally enjoy a variety of foods. Fresh herbs and greens can be a simple way to add something different to their day without making things complicated.

For this chicken salad, I used oregano, marigolds, thyme, lambs quarters, tarragon and sweet mint, then added Coop Cravings Trail Mix Egg Support Treat. The trail mix contains seeds, coconut, red pepper, marigold and organ meats, giving the flock even more variety in one treat. I love watching chickens discover something new because they are naturally curious and usually pretty excited when food is involved.

If you’re just starting out with chickens, remember that treats are extras and should not replace their complete feed. You don’t need to make an elaborate meal for your flock either. A little fresh greenery and a suitable treat can be a fun addition to their normal routine. Just keep portions reasonable and introduce new foods gradually. Chickens may act like they have never been fed a day in their lives, but we know better. _______________________________________________________________________________

Karen’s expertise comes from hands-on experience and a genuine passion for learning everything she can about raising happy, healthy birds, and then sharing what she learns with others. She especially loves helping new chicken keepers navigate those “Wait…is this normal?!” moments with practical information, real-life experience, and a healthy dose of humor. Because with chickens, there’s always something clucking up! Connect with Karen on Instagram @WhatTheClucksUp.