Cracked Corn vs. Scratch

[Firefly]

What's the difference between the two? Also, I've read here that you shouldn't feed scratch/corn in the summer, but I'm wondering when I do give them some this winter, is a handful or two each day for 5 hens too much?

Thanks

 

[justusnak]

cracked corn, is just that....corn. Scratch has other seeds mixed in. ( not sure what the others are..looks like bird food) You are right, very very limited in the summer months. For 5 hens....I would say... 1/2 cup of each...mixed together, right before bedtime...would help keep them warm on cold nights. Mine get thier scratch through the summer...just very limited, and only in the evenings, after it cools down.

 

[ChooksChick]

I have a better time remembering rules about care if I understand the reason behind things. Can anyone explain why this shouldn't be fed in warmer months?

 

[ruth]

I've heard it heats them up too much but mine scarf down Scratch & Grains all day long and it's 100 degrees with 100% humidity and they don't seem too hot - they are out freeranging and are as healthy as can be. They are crack heads when it comes to the Scratch and Grains which is a lot of finely cut up corn along with seeds and other grains. Of course I also feed them Black Oil Sunflower seeds, which they also love and Layer Pellets which they leave for last - it's their least favorite.