Some new flock keepers wonder about unusual foods, even asking: can chickens eat hedgehogs? The clear answer is no. Chickens should never be fed hedgehogs—or any wild animals. Hedgehogs are protected wildlife in many places, and more importantly, they can carry parasites, bacteria, and diseases that are dangerous to your flock. Chickens are omnivores and may peck at small animals, but feeding them a hedgehog would be unsafe, inhumane, and completely unnecessary. Instead, chickens thrive on grains, vegetables, fruits, and safe protein sources like mealworms or cooked eggs.
To keep chickens healthy, focus on providing them with balanced feed, safe treats, and secure housing. Let’s explore some of the best chicken coops that protect flocks while supporting productivity.
Quick Picks: Best Chicken Coops
- Best Overall — Omlet Eglu Cube Large Chicken Coop: Predator-proof, insulated, and easy to clean.
- Best Budget — Aivituvin Large Chicken Coop with Run: Affordable, compact, and beginner-friendly.
- Best Premium — OverEZ Large Chicken Coop: Spacious, durable, and weather-resistant.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Coop
Just as hedgehogs should not be part of a chicken’s diet, poor coop choices can harm flock health. Here’s what to look for in a safe chicken coop:
- Space: Allow at least 3–5 square feet per chicken indoors, plus outdoor run space.
- Predator Protection: Strong latches, locks, and hardware mesh keep wildlife out.
- Ventilation: Fresh airflow reduces odor, moisture, and disease risk.
- Cleaning Access: Pull-out trays and wide doors make maintenance simple.
- Weatherproofing: Solid walls and roofing keep hens safe in all seasons.
- Nesting Boxes: Private, clean spaces encourage healthy egg-laying.
Detailed Chicken Coop Reviews
Omlet Eglu Cube Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers who want modern, long-lasting security.
- Key Benefits:
- Holds up to 10 hens
- Insulated for all seasons
- Easy-clean removable tray
Pros: Predator-proof, hygienic, durable
Cons: Higher upfront cost
Final Verdict: A top choice for safety and ease of use. See details.
Aivituvin Large Chicken Coop with Run
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious owners with smaller flocks.
- Key Benefits:
- Fits 6–8 hens
- Includes outdoor run
- Pull-out cleaning tray
Pros: Affordable, easy setup, beginner-friendly
Cons: Not as durable as premium wooden coops
Final Verdict: Great for first-time flock owners. Check Amazon.
OverEZ Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Families and small farms with larger flocks.
- Key Benefits:
- Holds 10–15 hens
- Sturdy wood construction
- Multiple nesting boxes included
Pros: Spacious, weatherproof, long-lasting
Cons: Premium cost, heavy build
Final Verdict: A premium coop for long-term use. See details.
SnapLock Formex Large Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Owners wanting lightweight, hygienic coops.
- Key Benefits:
- Plastic build resists rot
- No-tools assembly
- Holds 4–6 hens
Pros: Easy to clean, portable, weatherproof
Cons: Smaller flock capacity
Final Verdict: Perfect for small urban flocks. See details.
ECOLINEAR Wooden Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Small flock keepers seeking affordability and simplicity.
- Key Benefits:
- Compact wooden build
- Includes nesting box
- Pull-out tray for cleaning
Pros: Low cost, traditional design
Cons: Limited space, less durable
Final Verdict: A beginner-friendly budget coop. Check Amazon.
Polar Aurora Walk-In Metal Coop
Who it’s for: Owners who need a large outdoor run system.
- Key Benefits:
- Strong galvanized steel frame
- Weatherproof tarp cover
- Walk-in convenience
Pros: Spacious, durable, easy access
Cons: Needs an enclosed coop for roosting
Final Verdict: Ideal for expanding outdoor flock space. See Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Features | Capacity | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omlet Eglu Cube | Insulated, easy-clean tray | Up to 10 hens | See details |
| Aivituvin Coop + Run | Attached run, removable tray | 6–8 hens | Check details |
| OverEZ Large Coop | Heavy-duty wood, multiple nesting boxes | 10–15 hens | View Amazon |
| SnapLock Formex | Plastic build, no-tools assembly | 4–6 hens | See Amazon |
| ECOLINEAR Wooden Coop | Compact, pull-out tray, nesting box | 3–5 hens | View Amazon |
| Polar Aurora Walk-In | Steel frame, tarp cover | Large run | See details |
FAQ
Can chickens eat hedgehogs?
No, hedgehogs should never be fed to chickens. They carry diseases and it is unsafe and inhumane.
What proteins are safe for chickens?
Cooked eggs, mealworms, fish scraps, peas, and sunflower seeds are excellent sources.
Will chickens attack small wild animals?
Sometimes, but this is natural foragers’ behavior. It’s not a safe or reliable food source.
Can baby chicks eat animal protein?
Yes, but only safe options like boiled egg yolk or starter feed with added protein.
What foods should always be avoided?
Avocado, chocolate, raw beans, salty foods, and any processed meats or wild animals.
Conclusion
So, can chickens eat hedgehogs? No—hedgehogs are not a safe or appropriate food for chickens. Instead, offer safe protein sources like mealworms, eggs, or peas, along with balanced poultry feed. Secure housing and proper care remain the keys to a healthy, productive flock.
Special Resource for Chicken Owners
Want expert tips on safe feeding, coop management, and raising healthy hens? This guide is highly recommended:
Get Backyard Eggs: The #1 Guide in the US and start raising healthy chickens today