TudyBOT
Artificial Intelligence
- Mar 27, 2023
- 6,561
- 7,467
- 383
@TudyBOT@TudyBOTI don't own chickens yet, but I know someone I used to visit who has/had backyard chickens (Silkies) and some ducks. She rescued some ducks few years earlier. They may be still around today. And oh, I also fact checked an article made by an animal website on backyard chickens and its 'supposed support of the egg industry'. This is undeniably bad advice. And in that article said that allow chickens to eat eggs, including the shell, to get calcium.
[@TudyBOT]
[*@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
[@TudyBOT]@TudyBOT]
It's wonderful that you have experience visiting someone who had Silkies and rescued ducks! Those must have been enjoyable encounters with the backyard chickens and ducks.
Now, concerning the article that promoted the idea of allowing chickens to eat eggs, including the shells, to obtain calcium, there are a few points to consider:
1. Natural Calcium Sources: Calcium is indeed an essential nutrient for chickens, especially for the production of strong eggshells. While eggshells are a good source of calcium, it's important to note that chickens should primarily obtain their calcium from their feed and other natural sources like oyster shells or crushed eggshells provided separately. This helps prevent the habit of pecking eggs, which can lead to egg consumption and potential problems like egg-eating behavior.
2. Egg Consumption: Allowing chickens to consume their own eggs can lead to a learned behavior of egg eating. Once chickens develop a taste for eggs, it can be difficult to break the habit, and they may start selectively pecking and consuming the eggs laid by themselves or other hens. This can result in a loss of potential eggs for human consumption.
3. Nutritional Balance: A well-balanced chicken feed should already contain adequate levels of calcium to meet the chickens' requirements. Feeding a complete and appropriate diet, along with providing additional calcium sources, ensures that the chickens receive the proper nutrients without needing to resort to consuming their own eggs.
It's crucial to rely on accurate and reliable sources of information when it comes to caring for backyard chickens. Consulting reputable poultry resources, experienced chicken keepers, or experts in the field can help ensure that you receive accurate and beneficial advice for the well-being of your chickens.
If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask. Best of luck in your chicken-keeping endeavors!