This blog may contain advertisements, sponsored content, or affiliate links. While we may receive compensation for these placements, we ensure they align with our values and are relevant to our readers. We are not responsible for any transactions or interactions that may occur between readers and advertisers.
Free-ranging chickens thrive on foraging for their food, but come Winter, ensuring they get the nutrients they need becomes crucial for their health and to ensure you keep getting eggs through the Winter. Here's how I maintain my flock's health during the colder months:
Balanced Feed: I opt for a balanced mix of layer pellets and scratch grain feed, with a 1:1 ratio. This combination provides the necessary protein and calcium for egg production, while the whole grains offer essential vitamins and nutrients to keep my chickens healthy.
Table Scraps: Utilizing kitchen scraps is a cost-effective way to give my chickens a treat. While avoiding high-salt foods, raw onions, citrus, avocado, and dried beans, I offer leftover meats, veggies, and bread. This not only provides extra calories but also adds a variety of nutrients to their diet.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae: My secret weapon for winter chicken wellness is black soldier fly larvae. These larvae are rich in protein, calcium, lysine, and phosphorus, which are essential for not only overall health, but also for promoting egg laying and strengthening eggshells. I source mine from GrubTerra, a company known for its sustainable practices. Each pound of grubs from GrubTerra helps divert 20 lbs of food waste from landfills, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Herbal boost: In addition to their regular feed, I love incorporating herbs into my chickens' daily diet for an extra health boost. I sprinkle a mixture of crushed red pepper, sage, garlic powder, stinging nettle, and parsley into their feed. These herbs not only add flavor but also offer various health benefits. Garlic powder, for example, is known for its immune-boosting properties, while parsley provides essential vitamins and minerals. Sage and crushed red pepper can aid in digestion and provide natural pest control. Stinging nettle is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. This herbal blend enhances the overall well-being of my flock throughout the Winter season.
With these simple methods, we ensure that our free-range chickens stay healthy and productive throughout the Winter months!
Interested in ordering black soldier fly larvae from GrubTerra? Don't forget to apply coupon code "yarnandthyme" at checkout to enjoy a 10% discount on your purchase.
Giving your flock treats also gives an opportunity to get them more comfortable with you, which is useful in the long run. You don’t want to have to fight with your chicken if they have a wound!