Are dried mealworms good for Chickens?

[lav]

Hello Everyone,

I have had 3 backyard POL chickens for a few months now. They enjoy eating everything! especially dried mealworms! I first brought a pack of mealworms a couple of months ago to see if they liked them. It turned out that they are crazy about them! However I am worried that they may not be too good for their health and wellbeing or could possibly affect their egg laying?

I just wanted to know others opinion and input on it.

Many thanks

 

[barred2rock]

Mealworms are high in protein (53%) & fat (28%), so if given too often it will lead to fat birds. But a handful once or twice a week should be fine. Mine didn't like the mealworms I got them, but they were from a grocery, so who know how old they were.

 

[lav]

Hello,
Thank you for your reply.

I am worried that I might over feed them a little too much but I will reduce the amount I give them especially as it's high in fat. I usually purchase my mealworms from a local pet store.

 

[barred2rock]

Just so you know, too much protein can also lead to fat birds. It's not just the fat.

 

[abraga]

I toss a handful out to my chickens everyday. I think as long as u feed them in moderation u should be fine

 

[lav]

Thank you for your reply, I thought as much