Backyard flock owners often wonder: can chickens eat June bugs? The answer is yes! Chickens love eating insects, and June bugs are a safe, natural source of protein. In fact, bug-hunting is part of their natural foraging behavior. June bugs not only provide essential protein but also entertainment as your chickens chase and peck at … Read more
Backyard chicken keepers often wonder: can chickens eat jelly? While chickens can physically eat jelly, it is not a healthy choice for them. Jelly is full of refined sugar and often contains artificial flavors, preservatives, and additives. These ingredients can upset their digestive systems, contribute to obesity, and reduce egg production. Unlike fresh fruit, jelly … Read more
Many chicken owners are tempted to share pantry items with their flock and often ask: can chickens eat jam? While chickens can technically eat small amounts of jam, it is not a recommended treat. Jam is loaded with sugar, and often contains preservatives or artificial flavorings that are not healthy for chickens. Too much sugar … Read more
Backyard flock keepers often notice their birds gathering around piles of feed, scraps, or forage and wonder: can chickens eat in piles? Yes, chickens naturally eat in groups and will happily peck at food when it is presented in a pile. In fact, group feeding is part of their social behavior. However, when food is … Read more
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 … Read more
Chicken owners often ask: can chickens eat ham? Technically, yes—chickens can eat small amounts of ham. However, it is not recommended as a regular treat. Ham is processed, high in salt, and often cured with preservatives that can harm chickens over time. While the protein in ham may seem beneficial, the sodium and additives outweigh … Read more
Backyard chicken owners often ask: can chickens eat guava? The answer is yes—chickens can safely eat guava, and they usually love it. This tropical fruit is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and natural sugars that can boost overall flock health. The soft flesh and edible seeds make it easy for chickens to peck apart and … Read more
Backyard farmers who raise multiple animals often wonder: can chickens eat goat feed? The short answer is yes—chickens can eat goat feed without being poisoned. However, goat feed is not formulated for poultry and does not meet the nutritional needs of chickens. Chickens require higher protein levels and added calcium for strong eggshells, while goat … Read more
One of the most common questions backyard flock keepers ask is: can chickens eat fruit? The answer is yes—chickens can safely eat a wide variety of fruits. Fruits provide natural sugars, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that can improve your flock’s health and egg production. However, not all fruits are safe, and treats should always be … Read more
It might sound strange, but many flock keepers ask: can chickens eat fried chicken? Technically, chickens can eat cooked chicken meat, but fried chicken is not a healthy option for them. The breading, oil, spices, and salt used in fried chicken are harmful to poultry and can cause digestive upset, obesity, and long-term health problems. … Read more