Backyard chicken owners often ask: can chickens eat hornworms? If you’ve grown tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants, you’ve probably seen these large green caterpillars. The good news is that chickens can eat hornworms, and they actually make an excellent high-protein snack. Chickens love hunting and gobbling them up, and they are completely safe as long as they haven’t been exposed to garden pesticides or insecticides.
However, while hornworms are nutritious, they should only be a treat. They aren’t a replacement for a balanced chicken diet. In this article, we’ll cover the benefits and risks of hornworms for chickens and recommend the best safe, high-protein alternatives to keep your flock healthy.
Quick Picks: Best Protein-Rich Alternatives to Hornworms
- Best Overall: Mealworm & Insect Treat Mix – A flock favorite, full of protein, perfect substitute for hornworms.
- Best Budget: Whole Oats for Poultry – Affordable and safe, adds variety to chicken diets.
- Best Premium: Grubblies Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae – Premium, calcium-rich insect treat for stronger eggshells.
Buyer’s Guide: Hornworms and Chickens
Before tossing hornworms to your hens, keep these things in mind:
- High Protein: Hornworms are an excellent protein source for growth, egg production, and feather health.
- Natural Foraging: Chickens love the thrill of hunting big insects like hornworms.
- Chemical Risk: Only feed hornworms from organic gardens. Pesticides can be toxic to chickens.
- Treat, Not Feed: Hornworms are a snack, not a balanced diet. Poultry feed must remain the main food.
- Other Insects: If hornworms aren’t available, mealworms, crickets, and black soldier fly larvae are great alternatives.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Mealworm & Insect Treat Mix
Who it’s for: Flock owners who want a hornworm alternative available year-round.
Key Benefits:
- High protein content
- Mix of insects that mimic natural diet
- Chickens go crazy for it
Pros:
- Boosts egg production
- Supports molting hens
- Long shelf life
Cons:
- More expensive than grains
- Best used as a supplement
Final Verdict: A perfect high-protein treat that replaces hornworms. Check price on Amazon.
2. Grubblies Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Who it’s for: Owners looking for premium insect protein with added calcium.
Key Benefits:
- High protein and calcium
- Stronger eggshells and healthier feathers
- Eco-friendly farming
Pros:
- Nutritious insect source
- Chickens love them
- Sustainable alternative to hornworms
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Only a treat, not daily feed
Final Verdict: A premium supplement for stronger eggs. Check price on Amazon.
3. Whole Oats for Poultry
Who it’s for: Keepers who want a safe, cheap treat instead of hornworms.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable bulk grain
- Safe and easy to digest
- Encourages natural pecking
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Readily available
- Healthier than relying on rodent food or scraps
Cons:
- Not high in protein
- Needs balance with insect treats
Final Verdict: A budget-friendly way to supplement feed. Check price on Amazon.
4. Kalmbach Feeds All Natural Layer Crumbles
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers who want safe, balanced nutrition beyond insects.
Key Benefits:
- Complete feed with protein and calcium
- Supports egg laying and growth
- Convenient crumble texture
Pros:
- Balanced daily feed
- Safer than relying on hornworms
- Trusted poultry brand
Cons:
- Costs more than plain grains
- Must be fed in proper feeders
Final Verdict: A complete feed that keeps hens thriving. Check price on Amazon.
5. Manna Pro Harvest Delight Poultry Treat
Who it’s for: Owners who want variety beyond insects and worms.
Key Benefits:
- Grains, peas, carrots, and seeds
- Fun, enriching treat
- Boosts yolk color
Pros:
- Nutritious mix
- Healthier than scraps
- Chickens love it
Cons:
- Not a complete diet
- Costs more than home scraps
Final Verdict: A tasty treat that enriches diet. Check price on Amazon.
6. Small Pet Select Organic Scratch Grains
Who it’s for: Chicken keepers who prefer organic, safe snacks.
Key Benefits:
- Organic corn, wheat, and barley
- Encourages natural foraging
- Much safer than random insects from treated gardens
Pros:
- Organic and GMO-free
- Chickens love it
- Safe daily treat
Cons:
- Not a complete feed
- More costly than plain grains
Final Verdict: A wholesome organic option. Check price on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mealworm Treat Mix | High-protein insects | 5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Grubblies Black Soldier Fly | Protein + calcium | 5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Whole Oats | Budget bulk grain | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Kalmbach Crumbles | All-natural complete feed | 50 lb bag | Check Price |
| Manna Pro Harvest Delight | Grain & veggie mix | 2.5 lb bag | Check Price |
| Organic Scratch Grains | Organic corn, wheat, barley | 25 lb bag | Check Price |
FAQ: Chickens and Hornworms
1. Can chickens eat hornworms?
Yes. Chickens can safely eat hornworms, and they’re a great protein source if chemical-free.
2. Are hornworms toxic to chickens?
No, unless they’ve been exposed to pesticides or insecticides in the garden.
3. Do chickens like hornworms?
Yes! Chickens love hornworms because they are large, easy to catch, and full of protein.
4. Can chicks eat hornworms?
Not recommended. Hornworms may be too large and cause choking. Stick with chick starter feed.
5. What’s the best alternative to hornworms?
Dried mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, or forage blends are safer and available year-round.
Conclusion
So, can chickens eat hornworms? Yes! They are a safe, protein-packed treat that chickens enjoy, as long as they come from chemical-free gardens. Just remember that hornworms are a treat, not a full diet. For regular protein and nutrition, stick with balanced feeds and safe insect treats like those reviewed above.
Your hens will be healthier, more productive, and far happier when provided with the right mix of daily feed and safe high-protein snacks.
Special Guide for Coop Owners
Feeding is only part of chicken care. For a full flock success system, we recommend:
Backyard Eggs: The #1 Guide in the US
- Step-by-step coop building instructions
- Noise and smell control tips
- Beginner-friendly care routines
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