Before I get out my spreader --

[BioBob]

I think I had better ask whether or not there are any ill effects if the chickens eat the pellitized lime.

Can they OD on it? Any additives in the pelletizing process that will affect them?

Thanks in advance for the benefit of your wisdom.

 

[RM44]

No clue! But here's a bump for you to see if anyone else knows.

 

[Gonzo]

I do know you want to make sure its Agr. lime, which is not in pellet form.Hydrated lime, slake lime, or "burn lime"- This is pure white. Hydrated lime is very caustic, so the bag will have a warning on it. This is the kind of lime you use for white wash . This lime will burn you and your livestock. Do not use it on the floor. Do not breath it.
Agricultural lime, "ag lime", "garden lime", "barn lime" or dolomite- This lime is gray and can be used to spread on the floor of your barn. This is safe for you and your livestock. It will not burn.

 

[chookchick]

If you are using it on a lawn that they are free-ranging on, I would wait until it is completely washed into the ground before letting them out onto it. You may need to hose it in and help it along.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

As long as it's not Hydrated lime. it wont hurt them.
It's mostly calcium anyway

 

[Mac in Wisco]

Ag lime is calcium carbonate, ground limestone. They use it in layer feed as a calcium source. It won't hurt them.

 

[Mac in Wisco]

gonzo&hispeeps :

I do know you want to make sure its Agr. lime, which is not in pellet form.Hydrated lime, slake lime, or "burn lime"- This is pure white. Hydrated lime is very caustic, so the bag will have a warning on it. This is the kind of lime you use for white wash . This lime will burn you and your livestock. Do not use it on the floor. Do not breath it.
Agricultural lime, "ag lime", "garden lime", "barn lime" or dolomite- This lime is gray and can be used to spread on the floor of your barn. This is safe for you and your livestock. It will not burn.

Hydrated lime is what has been traditionally used to sanitize barns, manure, animal carcases, etc. Yes, it is caustic, the high pH is what provides the sanitizing effect. Spreading ag lime in the barn does very little except to maybe dessicate damp areas and dry them out, it has little benefit otherwise.​

 

[chookchick]

But wouldn't you be concerned, Mac, if they were getting a lot of it? Like--a little on every blade of grass...It could be really hard on their kidneys.

 

[Mac in Wisco]

Quote:
I doubt they'd take in that much. If that were the case, then gravel driveways would also be hazardous to chickens.