Our hens love treats. They are fed regular layer crumbles available to them from morning until dusk. This mixture provides them with nutrients that keep them healthy and producing eggs. But a little gastronomical stimulation never hurts.
When I enter the back yard they come running. Are they fond of me? Of course. Are they looking for a back scratch? Usually. Do they hope I have a treat for them? ABSOLUTELY! Chickens are happy eaters and a few treats will keep them that way. Here are some extras you can safely add to their regular diet.
Most fruits, either cooked or raw are fine for chickens. Apple seeds have cyanide that can be harmful in large quantities. When I make applesauce, I give them peelings without the core. Other fruits like pears, plums, seedless grapes, berries, pomegranates, melon, raisins, and bananas (without the peel) are favorites. Bread is fine in moderation. Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, carrots (tops and bottoms), corn, cucumbers, lettuce, chard, arugula, bell peppers, peas, pumpkin, summer squash, kale, cooked turnips and beets, and tomatoes (cooked or raw). Cooked potatoes can be given to chickens along with cooked rice, sunflower seed in the shell or out, and cereals, bulgur or grit.
My chickens get rose petals when I deadhead the shrubs. When I prune, I often put the clipping in the pen and let them check through it for insects and tender sprouts.
While I’m sure my hens would like it, I do not give them meat or fish simply because I don’t want to attract yellowjackets to my yard. Both are safe in reasonable quantities. My hens like yogurt and cottage cheese served in a bowl and have learned to be somewhat ladylike when they eat it.
My hens cannot “free range” due to predators. Giving them treats is a way of keeping them active and interested while supplementing their diet with healthy alternatives.
