What to Feed Chickens in Winter
This list of What to Feed Chickens in Winter will help you raise a hardy flock to withstand the cold temperatures. Look at it as if you are fueling a furnace on those cold, windy days so your entire flock can continue to supply you with farm fresh eggs.
Raising chickens that are healthy all begins with the food they eat. This guide will get you started off right.
Raising animals in the cold weather can be a little nerve-racking for owners. You want to be sure everyone in your care is healthy and happy even when the temperatures are in the single digits. Knowing the best food to give your chickens is the best place to begin your winter care routine.
The Importance of Diet and Winter Hardiness
Chickens are cold-blooded animals, and that means they need more energy to maintain their body temperature during the colder months. By making a few diet adjustments in the winter, you can help them to better handle the colder temperatures.
Proper nutrition is a must, especially if you want a flock that is thriving, consistently laying eggs, with strong immune systems.
The good news is that chickens overall do just fine in the winter months and with a few adjustments on your end, you can ensure they thrive.
Can chickens go outside in the winter?
I love to give our flock access to the outside area throughout the winter months. Giving them access to fresh air will help to keep their lungs healthier.
Fresh air will also help to keep a coop smelling better reducing the risk of breathing issues in the flock. Chicken urine and manure have a strong smell, so allowing the coop to “air out” during the day can make a big difference.
To help keep your flock dry while they are outside in the winter, you can make a simple DIY shelter block using a board nailed to the side of the coop, giving a warmer corner to stand in.
Place a bowl outside and fill it with kitchen scraps to encourage everyone to come out. Don’t worry about your chickens staying out too long if they get cold…they will return to the coop.
What foods increase energy in chickens?
There are certain types of food that will provide your chickens with the necessary energy to keep them warm and healthy during the winter months.
#1. Grains:
Whole grains like corn, oats, and barley are a great source of complex carbohydrates which help provide long-lasting energy for your chickens.
#2. Fruits:
Apples, pears, and other winter fruits are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can boost your chickens’ immunity during the cold season.
#3. Vegetables:
Leafy greens like kale and broccoli, as well as root vegetables like carrots and beets, are packed with nutrients that are essential for keeping your chickens healthy.
#4. Seeds:
‘Sunflower seeds and other high-fat seeds are a great source of energy and help keep chickens warm during the winter. We prefer to feed black oil sunflower seeds to our chickens since they have thin shells, making them easier to eat.
#5. Mealworms:
Dried mealworms are a great source of protein and fat, which can help keep your chickens warm and provide them with the necessary energy to withstand the cold weather.
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Feeding Tips for Winter
In addition to providing your chickens with the right types of food, there are also some feeding tips you can follow to ensure your flock stays healthy and warm during the winter months:
#1. Increase their food intake:
As mentioned before, chickens require more energy in the winter, so make sure to increase their daily food intake accordingly.
#2. Offer hot mash:
A warm mash made of grains, seeds, fruits, and vegetables will not only provide your chickens with the necessary nutrients but also help keep them warm.
#3. Keep their water from freezing:
It’s important to regularly check and replace your chickens’ water supply, as they need access to clean water at all times. You can also add a few drops of apple cider vinegar or electrolytes to the water to boost their immunity.
#4. Continuous feeders:
Continuous feeders allow your chickens to eat frequently throughout the day. Chickens eat more in the winter because they burn more calories just trying to keep warm.
#5. Feed More Treats:
Giving your chickens high-fat treats will also help them to stay warm by giving them a layer of fat that they can use as insulation.
#6. Observe their behavior:
Keep an eye on your flock’s behavior to ensure they are eating, drinking, and behaving normally. If you notice any changes in their behavior or appearance, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.
#7. add winter lighting:
Some chicken owners choose to use artificial lighting in their coop during the winter months. This can help keep your chickens active and lay eggs consistently.
In addition to these tips, it’s also important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any extreme temperatures or storms. This may include having a backup heat source for your chickens’ coop or extra bedding to keep them warm.
It’s also important to regularly clean and add fresh bedding their coop to keep things smelling fresh and giving them a warm layer to stand on.
While winter can be a challenging time for both chickens and their owners, with proper care and attention, your flock can thrive even in the coldest months. By following these tips, you can help keep your chickens healthy and happy throughout the winter season.
Remember to always prioritize their well-being and consult a professional if you have any concerns about their health.
