Chickens

Chickens are omnivorous and some might say adventurous eaters. There is hardly anything they will not eat, though there are a few items that seem to be controversial among owners. One such item potentially on the menu is onions. Some owners are adamant that onions are completely safe and nutritious for chickens, while others say … Read more

Chickens are highly adaptable eaters, omnivores that enjoy both plants and meat in their diet. Most owners already know that you can feed all sorts of things to a chicken, and they will gobble them up happily. But like every animal, there are some things they should never eat. How about holly bushes? Can chickens … Read more

Lavender is one of the most well-known and beloved of the common herbs, and it is certainly the most fragrant. Whether you love it or can’t stand it, lavender has a distinguished history both in traditional medicine and various cuisines around the world. But can chickens eat lavender? Yes, chickens may safely eat lavender, but … Read more

The lilac is a common shrub that is known for its clusters of fragrant springtime flowers. Native to Europe they have been introduced to many other parts of the world and are commonly found in gardens, parks, and natural areas. They are often used as ornamental plants because of their showy flowers, and so are … Read more

Foxtail grasses are those that rely upon spiny clusters as seed dispersal mechanisms. Various species grow all across North America and are known for being a significant nuisance plant. However, chickens can eat all sorts of grasses, weeds and other pesky plant matter. So can our chickens eat foxtail? No, chickens should not be allowed … Read more

Chickens, like people, seem to be big fans of berries and will often try to get at berry bushes with enthusiasm. From strawberries to blueberries, there is hardly a type of berry that chickens don’t want to eat. But how about elderberries? Can chickens eat elderberries? Yes, chickens may eat elderberries but they should only … Read more

Are you thinking about raising chickens? If so, you may have heard about Black Australorp chickens. These jet-black beauties can be found at practically any feed store once chick delivery season rolls around – and let me tell you, they’re some of the most gorgeous birds you’ll find. But Black Australrops aren’t all about good … Read more

One of the biggest dilemmas that a beginning chicken owner is likely to face is one nearly as old as time, or at least as old as domesticated chickens: should you get a rooster, or not? Roosters play important roles inside a flock, of course, being primarily responsible for protection against predators and also for … Read more

Chickens can eat all kinds of things that humans and other animals would consider unpalatable, or that might even be harmful. Some common plants make a good snack for chickens even though other animals don’t touch them. How about something that is normally dangerous like hemlock? Can chickens eat hemlock? No, poison hemlock is toxic … Read more

Are you thinking of starting your own chicken flock? If so, you should definitely consider the Leghorn chicken! Leghorns are a popular breed of chicken that are known for their striking appearance, high egg production, and feisty personalities. And yes, they’re the inspiration for the legendary Looney Tunes character Foghorn Leghorn – so they have … Read more

There seems to be a lot of controversy regarding certain foods being fed to chickens. Some keepers swear that no harm comes to their birds, while others, including veterinarians, warn of potentially dire consequences. Leeks are one such food, and relatives to onions. So what’s the final word? Can chickens eat leeks? No, chickens should … Read more

The Sussex chicken originated in the historic county of Sussex, England. Just as Sussex is one of the oldest counties in England, it’s also one of the oldest British chicken breeds. First described as “Kent Fowl” or “Old Sussex,” these birds were some of the first shown in poultry shows, first exhibited at the London … Read more

Juniper berries are definitely an acquired taste, but have a distinguished culinary history and are a vital component of making gin. Certain animals eat juniper berries in the wild as part of their usual diet, so maybe our chickens can also. Can chickens eat juniper berries? Yes, chickens may eat juniper berries safely, and they … Read more

Do you keep chickens? Do you want to keep chickens? If you answered ‘yes’ to either of these questions you probably already know that this is one endeavor that is highly likely to get out of control. No one seems to know why this happens: One day you come home with a starter flock of … Read more

Most chickens love all sorts of leafy, green and flowering herbs. In fact, they love them so much many owners have reported that they periodically get into ones that they shouldn’t! How about oregano? Is oregano safe for chickens to eat? Yes, oregano is completely safe for chickens and has nothing harmful in any part … Read more

The Iris is one of the most beautiful and abundant flowers in the world and its popularity is matched only by its cultural significance. The Iris has been revered throughout history for its beauty and symbolism, and it has been used as a motif in art, literature, and mythology. You might even have some growing … Read more