Keeping our chooks healthy: What not to feed chickens

Chickens thrive on a varied diet, which is essential for their health and wellbeing. Providing a range of foods enriches their lives and supports their nutritional needs. However, it’s important to know what to feed them and what to avoid to ensure their safety. If you're not sure, please don't risk it, put it in the compost instead.

Chooks are very curious and will pack at most things.

When offering scraps to chickens, it’s best to place them in a designated area, such as the horseshoe in the Chook Hilton, rather than scattering food across the yard. This helps keep things clean and prevents potential issues with pests.

Foods to avoid

While chickens are known for their curiosity and will peck at many different foods, there are several items that should never be fed to them due to their toxic or harmfu; properties.

• Avocado skins and pits: Contains persin, which can cause respiratory and heart problems.

• Raw or dried beans: These contain phytohaemagglutinin, which is toxic and can be fatal.

• Raw green potato skins: Contain solanine.

• Chocolate, lollies or cake: Contains theobromine and caffeine.

• Apple seeds: While apples are safe, the seeds contain cyanide.

• Apricot pits and leaves: Contain cyanide compounds.

• Rhubarb: Contain oxalic acid or oxalates.

• Mouldy food: Mould can produce toxins harmful to chickens.

• Citrus: Not toxic but can reduce egg production.

• Onions: Contain sulfur compounds that can irritate the digestive system.

• Lawnmower clippings: Can ferment and cause digestive issues.

• Raw meat: Can carry salmonella and other harmful bacteria.

• Raw eggs: While cooked eggs are safe, raw eggs may encourage chickens to eat their own eggs, leading to a difficult habit to break.

• Salt and salty foods: Excessive salt can lead to dehydration and kidney failure.

• Processed foods: High-fat or processed foods can lead to obesity and other health problems.

• Caffeine: Toxic to birds and can cause serious health issues.

If in doubt, leave it out!

Feeding chickens requires knowledge and attention to detail. By understanding which foods are safe and which are harmful, you can ensure that the flock remains healthy and happy.

If you have any questions or would like more information on joining the team caring for our chooks, please contact us.