my girls have adopted a bug only diet?

[Chicken girl 15]

So I have 18 girls and I make sure at all times they have feed and water, both fresh. However in 2 days my girls have not eaten feed. They have decided living on bugs and vegetation is for them. Do I need to keep them cooped a few extra hours in the morning or will they be ok on just free range? Again yes the have 24/7 access to feed and water. Thanks in advance.

 

[phryan]

My 19 will eat about 1/3 to 1/4 in warm months when they can forage compared to being stuck inside during the winter. If I rotate them to a new pasture they like it's even less. The small amount they eat I think is in the evening to pack themselves full before they roost.

If they have access to food I wouldn't worry about them. If they aren't eating any then be mindful of spoilage.

 

[glib]

in the good season, that's what they do. They thrive on the woods floor and in pasture, or along fencerows and under shrubs. everywhere there is vegetation they find something to eat. they are really quite meticulous. Assume they need two ounces of bugs and unlimited greens to thrive, would you not be able to find those two ounces yourself in a day? and you are not as good as they are.

 

[Chicken girl 15]

Thank you both. Now I won't have to worry about them. They are some bug catcher's for sure.