yesterday I made crock pot surprise for the chickens. I warmed it in the oven tonight and gave it to everyone when I went out to tuck them in for the night. I feel so much better when they go to bed with full crops. I read that it keeps up the metabolism because they have a full load to digest. that helps them to stay a little warmer. the engine burns a little hotter. not sure how true that is but they sure like the treat. they all come running when they see me with the crock pot. some get so excited that they take off and land on my arm to nose dive into the pot and get first pick. I have one girl who hitches a ride on the toes of my boot to be at the head of the line. silly chickens.