Converting Predator Carcasses into Chick Feed

[SueT]

Well I guess I derailed it too then. But I knew that the OP had answers to my immediate questions about how to trap and then what. I needed advice that very night. He always has the most fascinating subjects and has a lot of knowledge to share. Thanks @centrarchid ! So sorry, back to the maggot experiment, we do want to know how it develops.

 

[Wolfefarmyard]

Well I guess I derailed it too then. But I knew that the OP had answers to my immediate questions about how to trap and then what. I needed advice that very night. He always has the most fascinating subjects and has a lot of knowledge to share. Thanks @centrarchid ! So sorry, back to the maggot experiment, we do want to know how it develops.

Me too!

 

[NewBoots]

There are probably a lot more people following this thread that haven't commented. Me for one anyway. Do please continue with your normally scheduled thread!

 

[aart]

However when I saw that picture it really upset me.

That's the time to walk away or unsubscribe. Have to do it almost daily on threads I disagree with.

 

[Wolfefarmyard]

I’m sorry, I’ve never been one to just walk away even though I know I should sometimes

Again I apologize.

That's the time to walk away or unsubscribe. Have to do it almost daily on threads I disagree with.

 

[centrarchid]

Juicy!

Maggots falling to ground with dripping juices. I can see them moving in grass below. Thus far I can see no beetles actually on carcasses. Also no sign of vulture action.

 

[centrarchid]

Keeping carcasses suspended above ground as shown not working. Virtually all maggots and fluid falling out desiccating remains on welded wire. Maggots in grass below have no cover and are either dispersing or being cleaned up by predators that are not the beetles I typically see dominating rotting carcasses. Last two carcasses have been placed on ground where break down is proceeding as typical.


At some some point I will resort to an elevated "sand box".

 

[jlwquilter]

This is new I me so I’m not understanding it all. The maggots are either ‘running away’ or getting eaten by something that’s not your chickens...?

 

[centrarchid]

This is new I me so I’m not understanding it all. The maggots are either ‘running away’ or getting eaten by something that’s not your chickens...?

There is something grass, a smaller more elongate beetle I think that is eating the maggots. I do not think they are dispersing, at least not in a manner I can easily see. They are not in the last instar before molting. Not being able to get in see is a problem.

 

[Mrs. K]

I wondered if the vultures would be offended by the wire basket, and leery of landing on it.

Is the elevated sandbox to keep the dogs out? I am not sure if I am following your thinking.

Originally, I thought you wanted the chickens to eat the maggots, but then it seemed like you were hoping for a beatle that eats the maggots?

Do you chickens explore the area at all? How is the smell?

Mrs K