Can I feed my chicks corn?

[cluckmecoop7]

Hi all,

I have three-week-old chicks. I was wondering if I can give them "defrosted frozen corn" at this age. I gave them a little bit and they love it but I wanted to check out what you think. Also, they did fine. No reactions or anything.

Thanks,

Cluckmecoop7

 

[Al Capon]

I wouldn't.

Every teaspoon of corn they eat means one less teaspoon of well rounded nutritional chick-starter. Corn by itself isn't that nutritious.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Hi all,

I have three-week-old chicks. I was wondering if I can give them "defrosted frozen corn" at this age. I gave them a little bit and they love it but I wanted to check out what you think. Also, they did fine. No reactions or anything.

Thanks,

Cluckmecoop7

Hi there.

Most our feeds are heavily corn based already. While chickens do enjoy it... as it's sweet and tasty... same reasons almost all kids eat corn... it is only about 7% protein and doesn't have any added vitamins, mineral, or importantly amino acids that our formulated rations do. For this reason it is suggested that you not give ANY treat more than 10% of the total daily ration. They will need some sort of grit to digest it if they don't already have some. Some people like to feed it still frozen during hot summer days as cooling treat. Peas are actually about 22% protein and also enjoyed by chickens.

I'm a tightwad and don't do treats for the most part. Many like to suggest meal worms... while they are highly desired by the birds and a good source of protein they are high in fat. Scrambled eggs are 34% protein and 64% fat (by energy).. a fantastic treat or quick pick up for an ailing bird... but all things should be done in moderation... and consider their whole nutritional content not just one aspect.

I also keep all treats personal, meaning not mixed into feed. And I only do them around an hour before dusk so they ate their feed all day and nobody comes rushing from the lay box for fear of being left out.

Hope this helpful... Pics always welcome!

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Thank you both!

@EggSighted4Life, you want a picture or two? Here:

 

[aart]

If fed anything but chick starter they need chick sized grit too.

http://www.jupefeeds-sa.com/documents/GraniteGrit.pdf.

I bought about a 2 gallon bag of granite grit from the local mill, they put it in their chicken scratch. Ran it thru a colander with 1/16" holes. Bagged the smaller stuff for the chicks and sprinkle some over a chunk of sod in the brooder during the second week.