Healthy Snacks for Backyard Hens

Backyard chickens are more than just egg-layers—they’re quirky, curious, and always on the lookout for a tasty treat. But not all snacks are created equal. Offering healthy, balanced treats can boost your flock’s nutrition, keep them entertained, and even improve egg production. Here’s a guide to some of the best healthy snacks for backyard chickens and how to feed them responsibly.

Why Snacks Matter

While a high-quality commercial feed should be the foundation of your chickens’ diet, occasional treats can provide extra nutrients, variety, and enrichment. Just remember: snacks should make up no more than 10% of their total diet to avoid imbalances.

Top Healthy Snacks for Chickens

1. Fruits (in moderation)

Fruits are sweet and hydrating but should be given in small amounts due to their sugar content.

• Favorites: Watermelon, blueberries, apples (remove seeds), strawberries, and bananas.

• Tip: Chill watermelon or berries on hot days for a refreshing snack.

  
  

2. Vegetables

Packed with vitamins and minerals, veggies are an excellent treat.

• Favorites: Kale, spinach, carrots (shredded), broccoli, cabbage, and peas.

• Pro tip: Hang a whole cabbage head in the coop—it’s like a chicken piñata!

  
  

3. Grains and Seeds

These provide energy and can be great in winter months when chickens need extra calories.

• Favorites: Oats, sunflower seeds (unsalted), barley, and millet.

• Note: Avoid salty, seasoned, or processed grains.

  
  

4. Protein Boosts

Extra protein can be helpful during molting or egg-laying seasons.

• Favorites: Mealworms (live or dried), scrambled eggs (yes, it’s safe!), and black soldier fly larvae.

• Fun fact: Chickens go crazy for bugs, so scattering mealworms can also encourage foraging.

  
  

5. Kitchen Scraps (the right kind)

Some leftovers can safely be repurposed into treats.

• Safe options: Cooked rice, plain pasta, vegetable peels, or cooked beans (never raw).

• Avoid: Anything moldy, salty, sugary, or greasy.

  
  

What to Avoid

Some common foods are harmful to chickens and should never be offered, including:

• Avocado (especially the pit and skin)

• Chocolate

• Onions and garlic (in large amounts)

• Green potato peels

• Raw or dried beans

• Anything moldy or spoiled

  
  

Snack Tips

• Keep it clean: Offer snacks in clean dishes or scatter them in dry, clean areas.

• Watch for waste: Remove uneaten food to avoid attracting pests.

• Offer variety: Mixing up treats keeps your flock curious and prevents boredom.

Final Cluck

Treats can be a joyful part of raising chickens—just keep it balanced and thoughtful. Healthy snacks support happy hens, which means better eggs, more activity, and a flock full of personality. So next time you head to the garden or kitchen, consider what you can safely share with your feathered friends