by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
Summer is here and we are already enjoying some tasty seasonal foods at our own dinner table. You can easily give your chickens the same luxury by preparing some summer treats of their own, or by giving them some leftovers from the family barbecue! Here are some of my treats that you can spoil your flock with this summer.
1. Watermelon. I mentioned this in one of my previous articles about keeping chickens cool in the summertime. Watermelon is an excellent source of water, and will therefore keep your chickens well-hydrated. It is easily-prepared – simply cut the watermelon in half and serve it to your chickens, letting them pick at it freely. No need to remove the seeds, as your chickens will appreciate those too!
2. Berries. Berries, such as raspberries and blueberries, are a nutritious choice for your flock, as they are a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Because berries usually get a bit mushy quickly, it is best to refrigerate or freeze them before serving. Many chicken owners enjoy feeding “berry popsicles” to their flock, where they add berries and water to an ice cube tray and freeze them. This will keep your chickens entertained for hours.
3. Frozen Veggies. Squash, zucchini, and cucumber are great summertime vegetable choices for your chickens. Cucumber specifically has detoxifying qualities and benefits for their feathers. You can even purchase bags of frozen peas from your local grocery store… an easy treat!
4. Garden greens. Lettuce, kale, and carrots are bound to be some of your chickens’ favorites. They contain magnesium, potassium, and calcium, along with Vitamin K and Vitamin A. Leafy greens freeze quickly and are also easy for your birds to pick apart.
5. Corn on the cob. If you have leftover corn from your family barbecue, give it to your chickens instead of throwing it away! But, don’t feel the need to cook the corn especially for your flock. Chickens appreciate raw corn just as much!
6. Apples. Apples are a great summer treat, best served cut up or blended into apple sauce. Apple seeds should be removed, as they can be dangerous to your chickens if fed in larger amounts.
In general, there are some rules you should follow when feeding your chickens tasty summer treats. Always ensure water is readily available to your flock. Feed treats in the morning or evening hours, when the temperatures are coolest. And, remember – treats should be no more than 10% of your flock’s diet! If you try the above treat ideas while abiding by these rules, you are bound to have some happy and healthy chickens this summer!