Is alfalfa OK for chickens?

[SurferchickinSB]

I bought some alfalfa from the feed store today to put in the outdoor area for my chickens. I was told that chickens like to dig around in it and it would alleviate some of their bordom, but after I set it out there I was wondering if it could have mites that would infest my chickens. Does anyone know if that is very common? I am just wondering if I should take it out? I don’t want my chickens to get any kind of mites!

 

[007Sean]

Not likely the alfalfa will have mites. And if your place is clear and clean of them, I wouldn't worry about it having mites.

 

[Soon2BChixMom]

There are a lot of different species of mites. It could have mites like you would find in the grass (chiggers, no-see-ums, etc). But, the alfalfa is most likely not going to harbor the bird mite which feeds on chickens. You should be more worried about wild birds that might visit your chickens.

 

[Melky]

Here is some information on nutritional supplements during the winter including alfalfa. Alfalfa is good source of protein and fiber.
https://www.gardenbetty.com/keeping-your-chickens-healthy-through-winter/

 

[Callender Girl]

I can't address the nutritional value for chickens, but my chickens -- and especially my ducks -- love to slip into the small hay shed and rearrange all the loose hay. No one has turned up with mites yet.

 

[SurferchickinSB]

Not likely the alfalfa will have mites. And if your place is clear and clean of them, I wouldn't worry about it having mites.

Ok Thank you

 

[SurferchickinSB]

Thanks everyone! I was wondering about that last night as I went to bed.

 

[Helloworld]

Chiggers will be your problem. Silage is much better for them. Not sure if you can get it from a local grower.

 

[Chickassan]

Mine love alfalfa,and iv'e not seen any mites seen a few grasshoppers in the bale but no mites.

 

[ngennetta]

Living animals are carriers of mites/lice, not forage. We feed alfalfa to our flock all the time! Although the alfalfa won't give your birds mites, if the alfalfa brings in mice or wild birds, the chickens can get mites from them