If you keep chickens, you know how important it is to give them the right nutrition. And while it may seem odd to feed your chickens other chickens, there are a few things to keep in mind if you choose to do so. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding chickens to chickens, including why you might want to do it, what types of chickens to use, and how to do it safely.
Why Feed Chickens to Chickens?
There are a few reasons why you might want to feed chickens to chickens. One is simply to make use of any chickens that have died on your property. It can be a way to reduce waste and ensure that your chickens are getting a source of protein. Another reason is that it can be an inexpensive way to provide your chickens with high-quality nutrition. However, it’s important to remember that chickens are omnivores and can eat a variety of foods, so feeding them other chickens is not the only way to meet their nutritional needs.
What Types of Chickens to Use
If you do choose to feed chickens to chickens, it’s important to use only healthy birds that have not been treated with any medications or antibiotics. Using birds that have been treated with antibiotics could lead to antibiotic resistance in your flock, which can be dangerous for both your birds and humans. Additionally, it’s important to use only birds that have died from natural causes, rather than birds that have been euthanized or died from the disease.
How to Do It Safely
Feeding chickens to chickens can be done safely, but there are a few important steps to follow. First, it’s important to remove the feathers and internal organs from the bird before feeding it to your chickens. This can help prevent the spread of disease and can also make the bird easier for your chickens to digest. Additionally, it’s important to cook the bird before feeding it to your chickens. This can help kill any bacteria or parasites that may be present.
Conclusion
Feeding chickens to chickens can be a way to provide your flock with high-quality nutrition and reduce waste on your property. However, it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure that it is done safely. Always use healthy birds that have died from natural causes, remove the feathers and internal organs, and cook the bird before feeding it to your chickens. By following these steps, you can provide your chickens with a source of protein that will help keep them healthy and happy.
Shannon Stansberry has been engaged in the business of raising chickens for more than 12 years. In 2016, she accomplished the Agriculture & Natural Resources program at Mt. San Antonio College. At present, she tends to more than 80 chickens on her 4-hectare farm. Shannon regularly shares her insights and experience on how to raise healthy and contented chickens on the platform Typesofchickens.com
