Scratch do I need it what is it

[Chicken-lovebirdchihuahua]

I have 10 chickens and I don't have scratch do I need it or is it more like a treat? How much do I give them

 

[TomZilla43]

Scratch refers to scratch grains, it's mostly cracked corn and a few other grains, my fil has some that has black sunflower seeds in it. I use it primarily as a treat although many on here believe that due to it's almost sole carb only make-up it helps them to be able to stay warm in the cold weather(I'm not sure on this and like everything here there are differing opinions). I do give mine more in the cold weather because whether it really works like that or not I think they deserve extra treats for dealing with the cold and they certainly burn extra energy staying warm.

 

[junebuggena]

You throw it out on the ground for them to scratch at, hence the name scratch. It provides a calorie boost in cold weather and helps alleviate the boredom of confinement. Pour some into an empty water bottle with holes poked in it for an interactive puzzle toy that can occupy your flock for days.
It's also useful when training a flock to come when called.

 

[Chicken-lovebirdchihuahua]

Oh that's neat I will get some today thanks so much both of you

 

[blackdog043]

It's also useful when training a flock to come when called.

Use the same word/words, when you call them and they will come running after they know what their getting. This is good if they have access to your yard or free range and you need them back in their coop and run. It's fun when their out of site and you call them, they all come running to you.

 

[Chicken-lovebirdchihuahua]

Coool that sounds like fun

 

[IdyllwildAcres]

It's also useful when training a flock to come when called.[/QUOTE]

Its pretty much junk food, but it does have its place in moderation.

Gary

 

[Chicken-lovebirdchihuahua]

Ok I'll keep that in mind