![]() ![]() ![]() No more than 5% of a chicken’s diet should consist of extras other than layer feed as obesity is a major problem in backyard laying hens. Treats or snacks can be employed as an occasional distraction in small amounts, but should not be relied upon as a primary form of entertainment. Provide feed in crumbles form instead of pellets to extend the amount of time birds spend procuring feed to satisfy their appetites. Being allowed to pick up small amounts of feed often throughout the day gives them the tools to do their job, eliminates competition for feed, and provides an activity with a purpose. For instance, any flock member who has feathers automatically assumes alpha status and gets to select a personal featherless assistant. Chickens require access to a nutritionally complete chicken feed all day, every day. When you live with a flock, there is a certain etiquette to uphold. ![]() The full-time job of a chicken is eating and their digestive tract is designed to hold and process small amounts of food at a time. Always f ree-feed chickens instead of rationing their food several times per day. Same solution as overcrowding, above and introduce boredom-buster type activities. Free-range chickens seldom run into trouble with boredom, but when inclement weather prohibits free-ranging, boredom-busting activities can be offered.Ĭhickens kept on a restricted feeding program, versus a free-feeding regimen, may become bored in between feedings, leading to feather picking and problem pecking of each other. ![]()
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