What age can I give bugs/insects?

[superdeluxe]

Just wondering what age everyone suggesting that you can give bugs/insects to? Our girls are about 2 weeks old. Also any really popular bugs with chickens? I know there are some 'don'ts' (like flies etc)

 

[floppysquirrel04]

Now is ok, just make sure they have grit to digest them. They will pretty much eat any bug except for beetles that secrete unappealing juices and the odd worm or slug. Anything else that moves is fair game. Mine even get pinkie and fuzzy mice when I find the nests. Mealworms and waxworms seem to be a popular favorite.

 

[igorsMistress]

If they were with a broody they'd be eating bugs now. Mine like mealworms, black soldier fly larvae etc. Just be sure you offer grit too. They'll also enjoy seeds.

 

[azygous]

A broody hen will give her chicks moths and worms and other soil insects. She is also encouraging them to pick up grit, so unless your chicks are being brooded on sand or soil, you need to supply them with chick grit, found at the feed store.

Miller moths and meal worms are my chicks' favorites, and they get them as soon as they've been on sand for a couple days and have picked up grit.

 

[Chickenhappy8708]

Mine love Rollie Pollies, or pill bugs. Another good thing to do is put a rotting log in their brooder, they can perch on it, and find bugs.

 

[WA_RN]

My 5 week olds refuse to touch the meal worms, even if I crumble them up, but love finding bugs in the grass when they go outside. It’s hilarious watching them chase each other around and steal bugs from each other.

 

[Chickenhappy8708]

I know, one of my chicks looks so stressed until she finds a "safe spot" they do this with dandelions as well.