when to start feeding suet

[OHSpartan]

I'm planning to have small amounts of suet available for my flock this winter for a little extra energy.

It is getting cool in Ohio, but still a long way before cold. Would you guys suggest putting it out now to prepare them for cold, or wait another 6 weeks or so when temps are regularly below freezing.

 

[Mskayladog]

Interesting I have not heard of giving the hens suet. The same suet you would give to wild birds?

 

[iron chicken]

whats suet?

 

[This_chicks_place]

I've given my girls those prepacked suet squares for bird feeders. They LOVE them! I pick the one with the highest protein, usually the one with the sunflower seeds. I they only get them a couple of times a year. It's a nice treat.

 

[Mskayladog]

whats suet?

http://www.amazon.com/C-S-High-Energy-Suet/dp/B000701PMA

The link shows a example of suet

 

[OHSpartan]

suet is basically kidney fat off of a large mammal like a cow. Deer, sheep and goats do have a little suet, but not as much as cows. It is hard and does not mold like soft fats do.

When we buy a cow from our neighbor, I have the butcher save the suet out. It isn't blended with seeds and nuts like the store-bought versions, so it is basically pure fat. It is always labeled "high-energy" and does help many insect eating birds like woodpeckers survive through the winter.

There are numerous recipies online for making your own. I've done it before with crisco, peanut butter, rolled oats and birdseed. The stuff from the butcher is "free" and he usually gives me more than my fair share.

 

[Mskayladog]

I can't find any info on feeding suet to chickens. Did any of you? How often it could be fed if its bad or good for them.

 

[snowpetals907]

I saw some suet pellets for sale. they are perfect chicken sized bites...think i might give them a try