Feeding Chickens the Right Way
Feeding Chickens the Right Way
Chickens are omnivores and fairly undemanding – but a few basic rules make the difference between happy hens and poor eggs.
The Basic Feed
Layer mash or layer pellets are the simplest solution: all the important nutrients, protein and calcium in one product. Always offer it fresh and ad libitum (as needed).
Alternatively: grain (wheat, corn, barley) as the main feed. But be careful: grain alone doesn't provide enough protein for good egg production. Supplement with protein sources (insects, legumes, whey).
Calcium – the Most Important Thing for Egg-Laying
No calcium, no good eggshells. Always offer separately:
- Oyster shells or mussel grit in a small dish
- Hens take exactly as much as they need
- Dried, crushed eggshells also work
What Chickens Like as Snacks
- Vegetable trimmings from the garden (lettuce stalks, cabbage leaves, cucumber, bell pepper) – very popular
- Fruit in moderation (lots of sugar!)
- Oats, especially in winter as a warming meal
- Worms and insects – the absolute favorite
- Corn cobs to keep them busy
Where it comes from matters: kitchen and table scraps must not be fed to chickens – that's banned across the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009) and applies to backyard hens too, because they count as food-producing animals. What's allowed is unprocessed fruit and vegetables straight from the bed that haven't been through the kitchen.
What They Should Never Have
- Avocado – toxic to chickens
- Raw and green potatoes – because of the solanine; cooked potatoes, on the other hand, are fine
- Onions, garlic in large amounts (affects egg taste)
- Citrus fruits in large amounts
- Raw meat or fish – risk of salmonella
- Salty foods (chips, bread in large amounts)
- Chocolate – toxic
Water
Clean, fresh water always available. Check several times a day in summer. Protect from freezing in winter. Approx. 0.5 liters per hen daily.
Tip: Chickens love variety. A cabbage head to peck at or a bundle of herbs hung in the run keeps them busy and happy.