Are Morning Glory seed toxic to chickens?

[Madcap621]

I covered my pullet's run w/deer mesh to protect them from raptors. Volunteer Morning Glories [the tiny ones w/1 inch flowers] grew up and over and provided great shade in our unseasonably hot summer

BUT.............they have now gone to seed and are dropping the seed into the run. Is this dangerous to my girls?

 

[TheFarmMama]

According to this website and a few others, Morning Glories are in fact toxic: "MORNING GLORIES (Ipomea spp.); entire plant; plant contains LSD-related hallucinogens; may contain toxic levels of nitrates. " http://www.poultryhelp.com/toxicplants.html#M

 

[hallerlake]

There are a couple of different plant geni called morning glories; the Ipomea and Convolvulus (also known as bindweed). The Ipomea is toxic. Convolvulus is not toxic to birds although it can cause problems for mammals. That's the problem with using common names. Tiny flowered, white, wild morning glories may well be Convolvulus. I'd try to look up what you have before you panic. Does this look like it?

http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=COAR4

 

[Rathbone]

AAAhhhhh! My entire fence is planted in morning glories! Cripes I am glad I saw your post!

 

[Madcap621]

Wow!

glad it's been raining! Will clear out the vines befor letting the girls back out!!

 

[hallerlake]

Quote:
If they're convolvulus, there's no need.