I have had chickens for about a year now. They never have been let out till here recently in the last few weeks. Since they have been turned out they have looked so much better. Also I have noticed they have had some really runny toxic looking poo , and they poo a lot more now. Is this because of their diet change or should I worry about it being something else? Other than that as I said they look real good,bright red combs, bright eyes, generally very healthy appearance. Its AMAZING what free ranging does for them. Maybe I worry too much?
They are very likely eating grass, leaves, dirt, worms, bugs, and many other things that only chickens eat when free ranging. I wouldn't worry about them at all. Chickens are creatures of instinct, and they know what to eat without having to think about it. They are true omnivores, and will eat meat with relish. Those who think that chickens should eat only plant-based feeds are short-changing their birds of natural amino acids and other essential minerals and vitamins that they would be getting if free-ranging. Good luck with your happy birds!
I wouldn't worry. The range of what's considered normal chicken poo is huge.....graphic pics: http://www.chat.allotment.org.uk/index.php?topic=17568.0 I'm sure your chickens are really enjoying their free ranging. I know mine do.
I am not sure what the weather has been like where you live, but here in my part of Texas it has been warm for awhile. Once it warmed up and the bugs began to really come out, I noticed the poo in the coop was really raunchy. I chalked it up to an increase in protien. Hand down, I believe chickens are so much happier and healthier free ranging. Plus, it is so much easier to raise them that way.
I've been free ranging mine even with snow on the ground but as long as its sunny. They love it though the guineas would rather sit in the trees than walk on the snow. They've had all kinds of funny looking poo but seem to be doing great. Yours should love it, too.
