Can chickens eat lupins?

[krista74]

We buy lupins which are cracked and added to cracked grains (wheat) for our cows. I am curious - is it safe to feed chickens small quantities of lupins? Our supplier seems to think it's suitable poultry feed but I would like to know what experienced chickens owners think? Thanks in advance. Krista.

 

[chickenlover432]

I'm NOT an experienced chicken owner, just so you know

But I think that chickens can actually eat them, and that they are good in protein.

 

[krista74]

They are certainly high in protein. The ones we buy are approximately 30% protein, which is too high for laying chickens if fed alone, but perhaps it could be added to grain in small percentages to increase the grain protein content? I have heard it can contribute to sticky droppings? My concern focuses more on if it is safe (ie: no potential health risks) by feeding it in this manner? Thanks so much for your reply!

 

[chickenlover432]

I'm so sorry, I can't answer that. Hopefully while I'm here, my knowledge in chickens will grow

 

[krista74]

That's ok! I am new to chickens too, and I'm trying to do the best that I can for them, and keep them alive ha ha! I'm sure with all the help that is on offer on this site we will both learn a lot Thanks heaps, and I hope you get as much enjoyment from your flock as I do from mine Krista.

 

[chickenlover432]

So what breeds do you have?

 

[Fancychooklady]

Yes , our mixed grain feed contains cracked lupin. They can be toxic in large volume though. They are great for sprouting.

 

[krista74]

We have 2 Buff Orpington pullets which have just started laying. We also have 4 Rhode Island Reds, only one of which has started to lay so far. Being that it's Winter though, my hubby suspects the other 3 will start laying when Spring rolls around. We also have a Buff Orpington cockerel called George, who is incredibly well behaved and I personally find him very funny. Who would have thought they would all have personalities, but I think they do! These are the first chickens I've ever owned but I'm loving it. How about you? What sort of flock do you have?

 

[krista74]

Fancychooklady, thank you for the information! I had read somewhere that some sort of dried peas could be bad for chooks but wasn't sure if lupins fell into that category or not! It presents another alternative for me to consider, as we get grain (both whole and cracked) and lupins for free from our family's dairy farm. We also get free hay, so therefore my coop is lined with hay! It seems to work ok, and I replace it every week so it's never damp. Anyway, thanks for the lupin info. Much appreciated! Krista

 

[chickenlover432]

We have 2 Buff Orpington pullets which have just started laying. We also have 4 Rhode Island Reds, only one of which has started to lay so far. Being that it's Winter though, my hubby suspects the other 3 will start laying when Spring rolls around. We also have a Buff Orpington cockerel called George, who is incredibly well behaved and I personally find him very funny. Who would have thought they would all have personalities, but I think they do! These are the first chickens I've ever owned but I'm loving it. How about you? What sort of flock do you have?

I have two Iser Browns. Now much of a flock, is it!? I had three that died. So are your RIRs very bossy? I've heard that they're terrible! But I don't believe that.