Backyard flock keepers sometimes ask: can chickens eat only grass? While chickens enjoy pecking at grass and it provides fiber, vitamins, and entertainment, grass alone is not enough to sustain them. Chickens are omnivores—they need grains, seeds, vegetables, insects, and protein to stay healthy. A diet of only grass would quickly lead to nutritional deficiencies, … Read more
One of the most common questions from backyard flock owners is: can chickens eat onions? The answer is no—onions are not safe for chickens. Onions contain compounds called thiosulfates, which can damage red blood cells and lead to a condition called hemolytic anemia in poultry. This can cause weakness, reduced egg production, and even death … Read more
Many chicken keepers wonder: can chickens eat olives? Yes, chickens can eat olives, but there are important precautions. Plain, unsalted olives are safe and provide healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, store-bought olives are often cured with salt or brine, which can be harmful to chickens if eaten in large amounts. Too much sodium can … Read more
Backyard poultry keepers often ask: can chickens eat mushrooms? The answer is yes—chickens can eat store-bought mushrooms such as button, cremini, portobello, or shiitake, as they are safe and nutritious. Mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants. However, wild mushrooms can be very dangerous, as some varieties are toxic to both humans … Read more
Backyard flock keepers often ask: can chickens eat mint? Yes, chickens can safely eat mint, and it’s actually very beneficial. Mint has natural cooling and calming properties, and many chicken owners use it in nesting boxes to freshen the coop. It’s also said to help repel insects and pests. Chickens enjoy nibbling on fresh mint … Read more
Backyard flock owners often ask: can chickens eat melon? Yes, chickens can safely eat melon, and they usually love it. Whether it’s watermelon, cantaloupe, or honeydew, melon is packed with hydration, vitamins, and antioxidants. On hot summer days, melon makes a refreshing, flock-friendly treat. Both the flesh and seeds are safe, though the rind is … Read more
Backyard chicken owners often ask: can chickens eat liver? Yes, chickens can safely eat liver from animals like beef, chicken, or pork—when cooked. Liver is packed with protein, iron, vitamin A, and B vitamins, all of which support flock health and egg production. However, it is also very rich, so it should be offered only … Read more
Many backyard flock owners are curious about adding lentils to their hens’ diets and ask: can chickens eat lentils? The answer is yes—but only when cooked. Raw lentils, like other raw legumes, contain anti-nutrients such as lectins and phytic acid, which can block digestion and harm your flock. However, once lentils are thoroughly cooked, they … Read more
Backyard flock keepers often ask: can chickens eat lemon? While lemons are not toxic to chickens, they are generally not recommended as a treat. Lemons are highly acidic, and most chickens dislike the sour taste. Eating too much citrus may upset their digestive system and can even interfere with calcium absorption, which is vital for … Read more
Chicken owners looking to boost their flock’s health often ask: can chickens eat lavender? The answer is yes—lavender is safe for chickens and can even offer some benefits. Chickens may nibble at fresh lavender or dried sprigs placed in their nesting boxes. Lavender has natural calming properties that may help reduce stress, improve laying conditions, … Read more