1. Mealworms
Perhaps the most popular insect treat for chickens, mealworms are a fantastic source of protein and fat. You can purchase dried mealworms or raise live ones if you want to be more sustainable. Either way, your chickens will go crazy for them! Just be sure to offer mealworms in moderation since they are high in fat.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle mealworms around the run or yard to encourage your chickens to scratch and forage.
2. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL)
Black soldier fly larvae are packed with nutrients, particularly calcium, which is essential for laying hens. These little critters help keep your chickens' feathers shiny and their egg production strong. You can find them dried at most feed stores, and some backyard chicken keepers even raise their own!
Why It’s Great: BSFL contain more calcium than mealworms, making them ideal for egg-laying hens.
3. Crickets
Crickets are another high-protein treat that chickens love. You can buy live or dried crickets from pet stores or online, and like other insects, they help simulate your chickens' natural foraging behavior. Letting your chickens chase live crickets is a great form of exercise and mental stimulation.
Fun Idea: Release a few crickets into the coop or run and watch your chickens eagerly chase them down!
4. Earthworms
If you enjoy gardening, earthworms are a wonderful and free treat for your chickens. While digging in the garden or compost pile, set aside a few worms for your flock. Earthworms are rich in protein and help diversify their diet.
Caution: Be mindful of where you collect earthworms. Avoid areas treated with pesticides or chemicals, as they can harm your chickens.
5. Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are another fantastic source of protein and are easy to catch in the warmer months. If your chickens are free-ranging, they’ll likely find grasshoppers on their own, but you can also help by catching a few to give them a special treat.
Bonus: Allowing your chickens to eat grasshoppers and other pests in your garden helps with natural pest control!
6. Beetles and Grubs
Chickens love to dig through soil and mulch in search of beetles and grubs. These bugs are abundant in compost piles and under rocks or logs. You can encourage your chickens to forage for beetles or buy dried grubs, which are often sold at feed stores.
For the Adventurous: Try turning over logs or mulch piles in your yard, and your chickens will happily gobble up any beetles or grubs they find.
7. Silkworms
Silkworms are less common but incredibly nutritious. They contain high levels of protein, calcium, and essential amino acids. While they might be a pricier option, silkworms are an excellent treat for your flock.
Where to Find Them: Silkworms can be purchased live or dried from specialty insect breeders or pet stores.
How to Feed Bug Treats to Your Chickens
- Scatter in the Yard: One of the best ways to offer insect treats is by scattering them in your yard or run. This encourages natural foraging behavior and keeps your chickens busy.
- Mix with Feed: You can also mix dried insects into their regular feed to give them a nutritional boost.
- Hang Treat Dispensers: Try placing insects in a hanging treat dispenser, which encourages chickens to peck and work for their food, providing exercise and mental stimulation.
Incorporating bug treats into your backyard chickens' diet is a fantastic way to provide them with essential nutrients and keep them happy. Whether you choose mealworms, crickets, or earthworms, your flock will thank you for the tasty and nutritious snacks. Plus, offering a variety of insects keeps chickens entertained and helps them develop their natural foraging skills.
