Gator Aid and chickens

[azygous]

It's been upward of 100 degrees F here where I and my chickens live. I don't spend much time indoors regardless of the weather extremes, so I fully understand how the weather is affecting my flock.

Yesterday and today I took breaks in the chicken run while I drank some Gator Aid. The chickens are always curious when I bring something with me, since often it's edible. I wondered what they would make of the taste of Gator Aid. I poured some of the red fruit punch flavored beverage into the bottle cap and held it down for them to taste.

I was surprised at the enthusiasm they showed for it. They crowded around, and multiple little heads dipped multiple little beaks into the liquid and quickly syphoned it up. I poured more, and that was sucked dry. Today I let them try the citrus-flavor and they showed equal enthusiasm for it.

I do provide vitamins and electrolytes in their waterers year-round. So they are getting plenty of electrolytes. I think they just like the taste.

Do any of you ever give Gator Aid to your chickens? I'm certainly not thinking of filling their water jugs with Gator Aid since they go through almost two gallons of water every day. But as an occasional treat, it seems like a fun thing.

 

[donrae]

Sure they love it, it's full of sugar and artificial flavorings! Same reasons humans like it.

 

[n8ivetxn]

Mine do too.... I'll probably get scolded for saying this, but oh well - I don't see anything wrong with providing a little for them in extreme heat or distress. It gets more fluid in them....what could be the downside? I don't know, too much sugar or salt? Sugar and salt are both good when you're hot, your body uses both substances...Maybe dilute it a little with water, they'd still drink it...