Citrus fruits: bad or good?

[CiceroXY]

Could someone explain to me why it is dangerous or counter-productive feed citrus fruits (also their peels) like lemons, oranges, mandarins etc. to chickens? Is there something toxic in them?

 

[eggbert420]

Actually feeding citrus can cause feather plucking. This is well know in the pet bird world and overlaps with chickens. It is a build up of citric acid and vit C that can cause it. Some are very sensitive others less so.

 

[CiceroXY]

Thank you eggbert420!

I didn't know it so now it is all clear to me!

 

[eggbert420]

 

[mohdhamza]

Could someone explain to me why it is dangerous or counter-productive feed citrus fruits (also their peels) like lemons, oranges, mandarins etc. to chickens? Is there something toxic in them?

In small quantities its OK
Citrus peels are bitter. Mine don't eat them. Throw half of an orange (with peel intact) to them. They'll eat the flesh and seeds but will leave the peel.

 

[CiceroXY]

In small quantities its OK
Citrus peels are bitter. Mine don't eat them. Throw half of an orange (with peel intact) to them. They'll eat the flesh and seeds but will leave the peel.

thank you for having responded mohdhamza, that's a great advice