Are gourds (the tiny pumpkins) okay for chicken's?

[Annalyse]

My rooster pecks at the gourd and I took it away from him cause I dodmt know if he was able to eat it then I searched it and said it was fine so I through it into the chicken run. Do u guys give your chickens gourds/squash?

 

[HappyDuckie]

My ducks and chickens like gourds. I haven't ever given them squash, but I have some growing so they may try one soon.

 

[Annalyse]

My ducks and chickens like gourds. I haven't ever given them squash, but I have some growing so they may try one soon.

Yes before I gave them any kind of scapes or table treats I always researched so I dont hurt them lol

 

[RevlisRemmah]

Oh good I have a whole bowl full of them on the counter! Should I cut them so they can get to the inside or just throw them in the run and call it good?

 

[HappyDuckie]

I cut mine up, but you can do it either way.

 

[Sally PB]

The skin on a lot of gourds/squash is kind of tough. They may peck at it, not get anywhere, and give up. I cut mine in half. So far, they have pecked out the seeds and "goopy" part, but left the flesh alone, probably because it too is pretty hard. I plan to give mine some cooked butternut squash this winter, They can have all the goop, and share the seeds with me.

 

[One Lucky Momma]

If you freeze it first, the texture is like it’s been cooked but the raw nutrients are retained, and it’s so tender the birds will eat it down to the outer skin. They especially love the seeds.

 

[Annalyse]

The ones i gave them were squishy so I figured it be easier. But nw=ow after the holidays if I still have them I just give it to them. Make sure its not old lol

 

[BuckeyeAmy69]

I have fed dried gourds to my chickens in the fall. I stomp on them to break the shell so they can get at the seeds inside.

 

[Ruby Rogue]

If you freeze it first, the texture is like it’s been cooked but the raw nutrients are retained, and it’s so tender the birds will eat it down to the outer skin. They especially love the seeds.

Thank you, I'm going to try this tonight. Hopefully tomorrow is a warmer day.