Millet is a small, round grain commonly used in birdseed mixes. But many backyard flock owners wonder: can chickens eat millet? The answer is yes—chickens can eat millet safely. It’s a highly nutritious grain, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health and egg production.
Quick Picks: Best Millet & Grain Treats for Chickens
If you want to feed millet or similar grains to your flock, here are excellent ready-to-use options available online:
- Kaytee Proso Millet – Best Natural Millet Grain
- Wagner’s Wild Bird Food Millet – Best Bulk Value
- Hartz Bonanza Bird Treat Sticks (with Millet) – Best Enrichment Snack
Buyer’s Guide: Feeding Millet to Chickens
Here’s what you need to know about including millet in your chickens’ diet:
- Safe & nutritious: Millet is high in protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals.
- Whole or sprouted: Millet can be fed raw, cooked, or sprouted for extra nutrition.
- Digestibility: Its small size makes it easy for chickens to eat and digest.
- Moderation: Use millet as a treat or mix into feed—don’t replace a balanced diet.
- Foraging fun: Scatter millet to encourage natural pecking and scratching behavior.
Can Chickens Eat Millet?
Yes—millet is an excellent grain for chickens. It supports healthy growth, boosts energy, and helps hens lay strong eggs. It’s one of the safest and most nutritious treats you can add to their diet, especially when used as part of a varied grain mix.
Benefits of millet for chickens:
- High protein content supports egg production
- Contains iron, magnesium, and phosphorus for strong bones
- Boosts energy for active flocks
- Encourages natural foraging and pecking
Detailed Reviews: Best Millet Options
Kaytee Proso Millet
Who it’s for: Owners who want pure, natural millet for their flock.
- High-quality proso millet
- All-natural, no fillers
- Easy to mix with chicken feed
Pros: Clean grain, highly digestible, nutritious.
Cons: Smaller bags may not last long with large flocks.
Final Verdict: The best pure millet grain option. Buy here.
Wagner’s Wild Bird Food Millet
Who it’s for: Flock keepers who want bulk millet for better value.
- Large bag of clean millet
- Great for scattering in the run
- Affordable for daily use
Pros: Budget-friendly, large supply, chickens love it.
Cons: Packaged for birds, so check for quality consistency.
Final Verdict: Best bulk option for larger flocks. See price.
Hartz Bonanza Bird Treat Sticks (with Millet)
Who it’s for: Owners who want an enrichment treat with millet.
- Millet-based treat sticks
- Encourages pecking and activity
- Fortified with vitamins
Pros: Fun foraging snack, nutritious, easy to serve.
Cons: Smaller treat size—not for daily feeding.
Final Verdict: Great occasional enrichment snack. View on Amazon.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaytee Proso Millet | Natural, high-quality millet grain | 25 lb bag | View Price |
| Wagner’s Wild Bird Food Millet | Bulk millet, affordable | 20 lb bag | View Price |
| Hartz Bonanza Bird Treat Sticks | Millet-based enrichment sticks | 3 pack | View Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chickens eat raw millet?
Yes, raw millet is safe and easy for chickens to eat.
Is millet better sprouted?
Yes, sprouted millet provides extra nutrients and is easier to digest.
Can chicks eat millet?
Yes, in small amounts. Millet is a soft, small grain suitable for young birds.
How often can chickens eat millet?
Millet can be offered several times per week, mixed into feed or scattered as a treat.
Conclusion
Chickens can safely eat millet, and it’s a highly nutritious treat. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, millet is a healthy supplement to a balanced diet. Whether fed raw, cooked, or sprouted, it’s a great addition to your flock’s feeding routine.
Special Note for Chicken Coop Owners
If you want healthier hens, stronger eggs, and easier flock care, this guide is essential: