Newbie question about treats...

[CarlaH0318]

I have a new flock of biddies that are close to 8 weeks old. Is it too early to give them black oil sunflower seeds or oats?

For my older girls, which kind of oats is best to offer?

Thanks,
Carla

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They are a bit young for black oil sunflower seeds, or oats. I do give a bit of cracked corn at around 3 months to scratch for.

Be careful feeding sunflower seeds to older birds as they can cause internal fat which can be deadly.

My chickens prefer rolled oats, and won't eat regular oats, but it could be mine are picky.

 

[CarlaH0318]

Thanks for the info!!!!

 

[lazy gardener]

The best treats for your chicks is going to be allowing them to shred some grass from an untreated lawn.

Usually, I only offer grains/scratch as an enticement to get the girls back into the run/coop when predator issues arise. I also sprout grains for the flock in the winter.