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related_results_labels_thumbs({"version":"1.0","encoding":"UTF-8","feed":{"xmlns":"http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom","xmlns$openSearch":"http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/","xmlns$blogger":"http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008","xmlns$georss":"http://www.georss.org/georss","xmlns$gd":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005","xmlns$thr":"http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0","id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-11-08T07:23:59.127-05:00"},"category":[{"term":"Chickens"},{"term":"Recipes"},{"term":"treats"},{"term":"diy"},{"term":"health"},{"term":"Eggs"},{"term":"Savory"},{"term":"Sweet"},{"term":"herbs"},{"term":"gardening"},{"term":"coop"},{"term":"Beginner"},{"term":"Winter"},{"term":"ducks"},{"term":"chicks"},{"term":"behavior"},{"term":"Liquid"},{"term":"predators"},{"term":"Summer"},{"term":"breeds"},{"term":"hatching"},{"term":"spring"},{"term":"fall"},{"term":"geese"},{"term":"rooster"},{"term":"predators + pests"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"Fresh Eggs Daily® with Lisa Steele"},"subtitle":{"type":"html","$t":"Browse delicious egg recipes plus seasonal tips for raising backyard flocks naturally from a 5th generation chicken keeper living in Maine."},"link":[{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/feeds\/posts\/default"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/-\/Chickens?alt=json-in-script\u0026max-results=5"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/search\/label\/Chickens"},{"rel":"hub","href":"http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/"},{"rel":"next","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/-\/Chickens\/-\/Chickens?alt=json-in-script\u0026start-index=6\u0026max-results=5"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"SharePoint Julie"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/13660178661082666627"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj_l2GBc41ytEEZwJHO7Oip0hb2nlFJkcnpPTLv8ohv00zP9ASDzRPLT0Sd6n236z_T60EGErvBJRbKmSHX6DMs65O-Svx-6FF3kNu0JpECxg_U7qEx2Jl3bp7fB0Pqsg\/s1600\/10898182_615465985246392_3062434659537570535_n+%281%29.jpg"}}],"generator":{"version":"7.00","uri":"http://www.blogger.com","$t":"Blogger"},"openSearch$totalResults":{"$t":"262"},"openSearch$startIndex":{"$t":"1"},"openSearch$itemsPerPage":{"$t":"5"},"entry":[{"id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615.post-7365129284325400220"},"published":{"$t":"2023-10-23T15:47:00.007-04:00"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-10-25T19:09:31.823-04:00"},"category":[{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Chickens"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"ducks"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"12 Reasons why Ducks are Better than Chickens"},"content":{"type":"html","$t":"\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003EThere are many reasons why I truly believe that ducks are better than chickens.\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgva9OcZiBW18q6N2qxfb7AWvNGapilH6Ek13syKXSU6rlvwydgAh7vp4oPZITJE9ciusE4L-fPqARL5xp0Wd0s0HMX88dGvzx0UjG7r_SEK1lxtn1VX6x51AMCnW709bKWAOx6G7ElzEUL06yrS-Lok2RTVRqbyN9CpQlswHzFV4BpZ1ZPCbVPb90wNJE\/s914\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%201.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"914\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgva9OcZiBW18q6N2qxfb7AWvNGapilH6Ek13syKXSU6rlvwydgAh7vp4oPZITJE9ciusE4L-fPqARL5xp0Wd0s0HMX88dGvzx0UjG7r_SEK1lxtn1VX6x51AMCnW709bKWAOx6G7ElzEUL06yrS-Lok2RTVRqbyN9CpQlswHzFV4BpZ1ZPCbVPb90wNJE\/w560-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%201.jpg\" width=\"560\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESsssh.... don't tell my chickens, but if I had it to do all over again, I would raise just ducks instead of chickens and ducks.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cp\u003EHaving raised both chickens and ducks together for more than 15 years, I can unequivocally say that I not only \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/06\/ten-things-you-need-to-know-about.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efind ducks easier to raise\u003C\/a\u003E, I actually prefer raising them.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ca name='more'\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhsQu5tY-IehpxP_sfXJLIUZGd0eWtcE1AXf8_pCem7Fvhi-bcBBpXk7mZkhPM2ghqdiBJ2HdIZBjVKeNJDfs4AdD78uuAA9f5NtZoUrMQyz6xCbH8fsccxmF94mNOq5W_mAzhur6CpKv4lqI5zNk24h0l_Y4rv2YHRsUT1O14VKOi6XAwxltgNFsUhyphenhyphenVM\/s989\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens2.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"989\" data-original-width=\"765\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhsQu5tY-IehpxP_sfXJLIUZGd0eWtcE1AXf8_pCem7Fvhi-bcBBpXk7mZkhPM2ghqdiBJ2HdIZBjVKeNJDfs4AdD78uuAA9f5NtZoUrMQyz6xCbH8fsccxmF94mNOq5W_mAzhur6CpKv4lqI5zNk24h0l_Y4rv2YHRsUT1O14VKOi6XAwxltgNFsUhyphenhyphenVM\/w496-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens2.jpg\" width=\"496\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut before all you chicken people start cancelling me (LOL!), please hear me out and let me explain - and don't worry, we're not getting rid of our chickens. I still love them too.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut it's the ducks who truly hold the key to my heart.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhRuupT3SvRgLLAJTail1R3j11sqcbWIchb0NmG4-0SqyLpv35PFPJlESUx9dtMg1nBk-DMJj_AfcNWK_cSIFHbzpRrLr-Wu2HESuZ0He53nyiCpxaeOt877WVY2ZddlJuOYwc4xoHbFVeAq3y_Uk02vurr19d6n60wIGjahWma9lsDsq0N2rUqjE4d53w\/s1048\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%203.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1048\" data-original-width=\"696\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhRuupT3SvRgLLAJTail1R3j11sqcbWIchb0NmG4-0SqyLpv35PFPJlESUx9dtMg1nBk-DMJj_AfcNWK_cSIFHbzpRrLr-Wu2HESuZ0He53nyiCpxaeOt877WVY2ZddlJuOYwc4xoHbFVeAq3y_Uk02vurr19d6n60wIGjahWma9lsDsq0N2rUqjE4d53w\/w426-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%203.jpg\" width=\"426\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EBusting the Myth that Ducks are Messy\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI'm sure you've been told, or read, or heard, \"ducks are too messy\".\u0026nbsp; I disagree.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd I have to say that people who say that just didn't take the time to really think about their duck set-up and create an environment for ducks specifically - instead they likely just \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/05\/the-best-ever-muss-free-duckling-brooder.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egot a few duckling\u003C\/a\u003Es and \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/04\/the-differences-between-chickens-and.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eraised them with their chickens\u003C\/a\u003E without making any modifications.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou need to remember that while ducks are poultry, same as chickens, they're waterfowl, which makes them different.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPeople who complain that ducks are harder or messier than chickens have to stop and think that instead of creating a home for their ducks tailored for their needs, they just created a chicken set-up and expected the ducks to adapt to that. Or added ducks to their coop without considering the ducks' requirements.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EI do agree that ducks love to \u003Ci\u003Emake\u003C\/i\u003E a mess anywhere there's water, but other than that, they are actually much cleaner than chickens. Ducks are always preening, and even our white Pekin ducks can be covered in mud one minute and then snow white the next. It's their super power!\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiAJbaRlKWrvVhGQdrUsyP65A-D1r-cEoeF6N8jXn1oCDEQlbC7-5JplDcfeSW9n-PlE2hOJys1FA1Def5WLxU8uaiKMMfQwPNVSnCedteFlLFtZ1rzBDDkGO_iHpTH2fQEpxEVsoYh2toNDjTFPzJfrMdcsrpTPSHpByyGbMIR9weKhew3vnA7CDyo8LY\/s1164\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%204.jpg\" style=\"font-size: 18.72px; font-weight: 700; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1164\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiAJbaRlKWrvVhGQdrUsyP65A-D1r-cEoeF6N8jXn1oCDEQlbC7-5JplDcfeSW9n-PlE2hOJys1FA1Def5WLxU8uaiKMMfQwPNVSnCedteFlLFtZ1rzBDDkGO_iHpTH2fQEpxEVsoYh2toNDjTFPzJfrMdcsrpTPSHpByyGbMIR9weKhew3vnA7CDyo8LY\/w440-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%204.jpg\" width=\"440\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ESo that myth aside, here are 12 reasons why I think \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/04\/5-reasons-why-you-need-to-raise-ducks.html\" style=\"text-align: left;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Educks are better than chickens.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E12 Reasons why Ducks are Better than Chickens\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEinCSZFhCAfVWkCaXHmqm3So6QwQka_i3DOZo_Pa8Rh2xbAQ-SMRGnodWU5GUjGQ3XNBMv1IcFXQfNjQrrzDiTHcDQPxyIN1vAvcnM0pXTVSApOEImLzT-O821_0Z7v16lG6vqM0abDk5dUdPFP2kvd744Y660pREbbhp6KlzECAXrrT-V6FxwFz7mVmX8\/s1166\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2013.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1166\" data-original-width=\"958\" height=\"612\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEinCSZFhCAfVWkCaXHmqm3So6QwQka_i3DOZo_Pa8Rh2xbAQ-SMRGnodWU5GUjGQ3XNBMv1IcFXQfNjQrrzDiTHcDQPxyIN1vAvcnM0pXTVSApOEImLzT-O821_0Z7v16lG6vqM0abDk5dUdPFP2kvd744Y660pREbbhp6KlzECAXrrT-V6FxwFz7mVmX8\/w503-h612\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2013.jpg\" width=\"503\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E1. Ducks are more cold-hardy than chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks really don't seem to mind the snow and cold weather much at all. They are much \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2013\/12\/cold-weather-tips-for-winter-duck-care.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emore cold-hardy than chickens\u003C\/a\u003E. Duck don't have combs or wattles that can get frost-bitten.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThey also have an intricate artery system in their legs that I won't pretend to understand, but that allows wild ducks to paddle around in half-frozen lakes all winter long, and allows our ducks to sit in a snowbank all day or hop into their water tub in the middle of the winter.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EMy ducks will sit in their water tub in the dead of winter here in Maine without a care in the world. They will also sit in a snow bank all day if I let them. They pull their feet up into the warm down on their bellies, tuck their bill under a wing and are perfectly content.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EIn addition, ducklings harden off much sooner than chicks and can be moved outside at a much earlier age, usually by 5 to 6 weeks old, depending on the time of year and where you live.\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003EIf you live in a cold climate, ducks are the obvious choice over chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiKrrlht2AAyT4OkTQ2fsX7c_YsoIbxQFkRFs4OpFmntQBhPuSV5DFevtOOUT_qtYDP9bIzsmJbjMY7v-2WV71HGdCekEvslt3qG2PiF-7YWwlOQBHWzmL2i1AXikNSLmVCcxmZnKzFbO6989ZLnntr4PqTrBPxwW8ghyphenhyphen9s6TKh37YMkorjXszRRTFSDUY\/s1169\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2015.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1169\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiKrrlht2AAyT4OkTQ2fsX7c_YsoIbxQFkRFs4OpFmntQBhPuSV5DFevtOOUT_qtYDP9bIzsmJbjMY7v-2WV71HGdCekEvslt3qG2PiF-7YWwlOQBHWzmL2i1AXikNSLmVCcxmZnKzFbO6989ZLnntr4PqTrBPxwW8ghyphenhyphen9s6TKh37YMkorjXszRRTFSDUY\/w438-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2015.jpg\" width=\"438\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E2. Ducks are more heat-tolerant than chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EOn the flip side, if you live in a hot climate, ducks fare far better than chickens. While the chickens are standing around panting with their wings held out from their bodies trying to get cool, our ducks are happily paddling around in their kiddie pool.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EFill a pool for them and your ducks will tolerate temperatures well above what chickens find comfortable.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EAlthough it's still a good idea to keep electrolytes on hand for extreme heat, it's pretty rare for a duck to suffer heat stroke as long as they can submerge their bodies in cool water.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo if you live in a hot climate, ducks might be a better choice for you.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhH88488KmWbyjbN8Z2epUmh8kbWGw2zZQi1t-ghR1AYAnYu0KlVEnceh1tx4Z90zCi4VWc9EsX1qKzD47_tywrZ09OHr6Yu1KSoaYEGjcBhuQmPfFTSrXg9-zpswVfLHdzBGT56MnX0_NtGPCtn6TCab0zeoN8R1j579U4UneziI_0S6fBKwAnta3q5LE\/s798\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2021.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"798\" data-original-width=\"588\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhH88488KmWbyjbN8Z2epUmh8kbWGw2zZQi1t-ghR1AYAnYu0KlVEnceh1tx4Z90zCi4VWc9EsX1qKzD47_tywrZ09OHr6Yu1KSoaYEGjcBhuQmPfFTSrXg9-zpswVfLHdzBGT56MnX0_NtGPCtn6TCab0zeoN8R1j579U4UneziI_0S6fBKwAnta3q5LE\/w472-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2021.jpg\" width=\"472\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E3. Ducks are less likely to be bothered by mites, lice or fleas than chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EBecause they spend so much time in the water, ducks are very unlikely to be plagued by external \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2013\/02\/mites-how-to-prevent-them-and-treat.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eparasites such as mites\u003C\/a\u003E, lice or fleas that can bother chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAlthough ducklings aren't waterproof \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/05\/great-eggscape-too-hatching-duck-eggs.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewhen they hatch\u003C\/a\u003E (unless they hatch under a mother duck who preens them) and can easily get chilled or drown before they're about a month old, short supervised swims are good for them.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENot only for their leg muscles, but also because that encourages them to preen afterwards which stimulates the oil glands which will eventually make them waterproof.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAdult ducks should have access to a kiddie pool or deep tubs of water to splash around in. That should take care of any bugs wanting to take up residence on your ducks.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhkFuuhGgttFm4r0xRxhiftWqjmyoskWgDKfGcKI6cc-FaRX9odsTkeIv-SWy7yJOmjP-rGc4yC-hEiJxvb-VzxEynUdRJjHSxcG0iTvKNctvn7unHWZDDyEw9Pctq87qyHQbUoPh6QgGucs93hfir3ZAhusJ_jc66J3BanaoRV8v7BsyEC3sAZ5D7fLss\/s783\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2019.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"783\" data-original-width=\"579\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhkFuuhGgttFm4r0xRxhiftWqjmyoskWgDKfGcKI6cc-FaRX9odsTkeIv-SWy7yJOmjP-rGc4yC-hEiJxvb-VzxEynUdRJjHSxcG0iTvKNctvn7unHWZDDyEw9Pctq87qyHQbUoPh6QgGucs93hfir3ZAhusJ_jc66J3BanaoRV8v7BsyEC3sAZ5D7fLss\/w474-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2019.jpg\" width=\"474\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E4. Ducks are healthier in general.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EBecause\u0026nbsp;of their extremely high body temperature and fast metabolism, ducks aren't as susceptible to the many pathogens and infectious diseases that you have to worry about when you have chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks rarely contract \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2013\/11\/coccidia-coccidiosis-natural-prevention.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ECoccidiosis\u003C\/a\u003E or Marek's disease - two of the more common chicken illnesses. And although ducks can be carriers of Avian Influenza, they rarely succumb to it.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey are also less likely to contract respiratory illnesses or have internal parasites. And because they spend so much time in the water, they rarely get egg bound or have \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/05\/natural-treatment-of-vent-prolapse-in.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Event prolapse issues.\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe most common things to watch for in ducks are botulism, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/07\/preventing-hardware-disease-heavy-metal.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehardware disease\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2016\/02\/treating-and-preventing-wet-feather-in.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewet feather\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/03\/preventing-and-treating-angel-wing-in.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eangel wing.\u003C\/a\u003E All of which can be easily prevented with a proper diet and maintenance of their environment.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh8gw84vJKfgACu4mNfJhtmw9tVrtp6H2aLGTkLedRwhTj86oIqNZ_JU1m_ORMK5cyqaDXC4w5KD0GUtorl_ofTv8KORxLZu-gfpJPYsYphnCC33_HJAnykKdrqN7UMKJkRtOYheNXnVyO0TfsPhV3RFjyplmOOx9ykcLSX2kWMYWcTLy1DE0AOSs1DiEs\/s1212\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%208.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1212\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh8gw84vJKfgACu4mNfJhtmw9tVrtp6H2aLGTkLedRwhTj86oIqNZ_JU1m_ORMK5cyqaDXC4w5KD0GUtorl_ofTv8KORxLZu-gfpJPYsYphnCC33_HJAnykKdrqN7UMKJkRtOYheNXnVyO0TfsPhV3RFjyplmOOx9ykcLSX2kWMYWcTLy1DE0AOSs1DiEs\/w422-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%208.jpg\" width=\"422\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E5. Ducks make less noise than chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EIf you live in a more suburban area, you might want to consider ducks. Not only do the females not make an awful noise like hens do when they lay their eggs (in fact, duck lay in secret under the cover of pre-dawn darkness), the male ducks don't even quack.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDrakes make a soft raspy sound, but don't full-on quack like their female counterparts, so it's possible to have a male without worrying about what your neighbors might think. \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/01\/so-just-how-loud-is-roosters-crow.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ENo rooster crowing\u003C\/a\u003E at dawn - and every other time of day!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAnd my female ducks are pretty quiet, although they can get excited when I fill their pool or they want some free range time. But I'll listen to a duck quacking over a chicken cackling any day. And bottom line, our ducks definitely make less noise than our chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E90% of the time they just chat quietly among themselves.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjCLylfUu7YDsJYIV6V5eC5Y_cUWMxxAtb-R-ByMwyLoLXkMTejqxljwVzEfthnbde92ZHpJ7THjgKrbqB_oUkK0QU4yeKc9kRY_9PLQfZWZylZh1kv2oHX3Fh8TLcFA6ohzZakUdX5MF16ytkqXNYTA5mKSpY0z5pK7bqAnpFbe_aqzLpkPW8y_Y_5BaA\/s1212\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2012.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1212\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjCLylfUu7YDsJYIV6V5eC5Y_cUWMxxAtb-R-ByMwyLoLXkMTejqxljwVzEfthnbde92ZHpJ7THjgKrbqB_oUkK0QU4yeKc9kRY_9PLQfZWZylZh1kv2oHX3Fh8TLcFA6ohzZakUdX5MF16ytkqXNYTA5mKSpY0z5pK7bqAnpFbe_aqzLpkPW8y_Y_5BaA\/w422-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2012.jpg\" width=\"422\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E6. Ducks don't need roosts to sleep on or boxes to lay their eggs in.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks are super low-maintenance when it comes to their sleeping arrangements and nesting needs. They sleep on the floor on a bed of straw or other soft bedding and will make their own nest in the corner to lay their eggs in.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003ESo it's very easy to turn an existing playhouse or garden shed into a duck accommodation. Or you can buy a pre-fab shed or other small structure to house your ducks in. No worrying about installing \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/11\/all-about-roosting-bars-in-your-chicken.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eroosting bars\u003C\/a\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/11\/all-about-chicken-coop-nesting-boxes.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enesting boxes\u003C\/a\u003E like chickens need.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhJQw6o-6w661R1b8PSCpGur0kf3HF-l3YWCfhXgJc_kvDf-rDvj5F_MP8V-VV6Bm41px-F57NCqd07TQOFzMbtKzMoLTHfcLqL0SEcBNx_oIKT7ABU9NQyt7jFD2lHIo-sS2j_uTV1I1rMbAj8v7DhPFXJkuukj7Tc70vqLYiHepHaOK1RyO42DCTkxPU\/s1112\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2016.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1112\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhJQw6o-6w661R1b8PSCpGur0kf3HF-l3YWCfhXgJc_kvDf-rDvj5F_MP8V-VV6Bm41px-F57NCqd07TQOFzMbtKzMoLTHfcLqL0SEcBNx_oIKT7ABU9NQyt7jFD2lHIo-sS2j_uTV1I1rMbAj8v7DhPFXJkuukj7Tc70vqLYiHepHaOK1RyO42DCTkxPU\/w460-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2016.jpg\" width=\"460\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E7. Ducks are better layers than chickens.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ESpeaking of laying eggs, ducks are better layers than chickens. They rarely go broody, which is a benefit if you're wanting more eggs not more baby ducklings!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EThey also continue to lay eggs with fewer hours of daylight than chickens require, so you very well might be collecting eggs all winter.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/08\/ducks-molt-too.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDucks also molt a bit differently\u003C\/a\u003E than chickens, so you won't experience the drastic egg shortage in the fall during an annual fall molting season.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EBecause they usually lay their eggs just before sunrise, and then cover them up with straw, which insulates them nicely from the cold in the winter, you'll likely not find any frozen duck eggs.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EDucks also tend to lay for more years than chickens. While chickens produce the most eggs during years two and three, and then production can drop around 20% a year after that, ducks will often continue to lay nearly an egg a day until they are five or six years old - or older.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjUXBXOL1H2ewmXAvVSZ49Bm2ThwlqhNB_55qTz26vFyraO2g5TXONb3_jfhSZY2txVQ0OYoXnxqu6IjymGg8f6kxtwiknDVcgZa2ZwHW6LQgDhjZoTXpwIGyrHiP2Gc0NVNg8PpBPpmEXAwO8FzSB8eUqAob31_56oX6_-nFPiD99QWzC2Oanuse87450\/s1166\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2022.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1166\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjUXBXOL1H2ewmXAvVSZ49Bm2ThwlqhNB_55qTz26vFyraO2g5TXONb3_jfhSZY2txVQ0OYoXnxqu6IjymGg8f6kxtwiknDVcgZa2ZwHW6LQgDhjZoTXpwIGyrHiP2Gc0NVNg8PpBPpmEXAwO8FzSB8eUqAob31_56oX6_-nFPiD99QWzC2Oanuse87450\/w440-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2022.jpg\" width=\"440\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E8. Duck eggs are better for baking than chicken eggs.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ENot only are \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/05\/duck-eggs.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Educk eggs larger than chicken eggs\u003C\/a\u003E (about 30% larger to be exact), because duck eggs are higher in fat, they are \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/11\/duck-eggs-vs-chicken-eggs-12-reasons.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebetter for baking than chicken eggs.\u003C\/a\u003E The higher fat content makes baked goods taste richer and also rise better.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYour cakes will be fluffier when you use duck eggs in them. And even scrambled eggs or an omelet will have a fuller taste and better rise when you use duck eggs.\u0026nbsp; And let's not talk about angel food cake or souffles!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYou can get away with using your smaller duck eggs one for one in any baking recipe, but the ratio is actually 2 duck eggs equals 3 chicken eggs. Or you can whisk the dusk eggs and then weigh out 2 ounces (or 3 tablespoons) per egg the recipe calls for.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEg35OCelZVGqhA_HwhgbuFjwDsAtQMXF4evToqJyEodqBv7ePT6YYicyfBrlikEwh7qcMwme-BBtJRodVQMiNqs_FR5jaoMVmGX3l8F7r5piUsjal1PfhnqX-EiYpfgEDiNCF_KadKsiMYIZyo_MQ4l29ce38FHRyc7esBXHV4C9vuALo-grnx6MSuZatc\/s1029\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2023.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1029\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEg35OCelZVGqhA_HwhgbuFjwDsAtQMXF4evToqJyEodqBv7ePT6YYicyfBrlikEwh7qcMwme-BBtJRodVQMiNqs_FR5jaoMVmGX3l8F7r5piUsjal1PfhnqX-EiYpfgEDiNCF_KadKsiMYIZyo_MQ4l29ce38FHRyc7esBXHV4C9vuALo-grnx6MSuZatc\/w498-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%2023.jpg\" width=\"498\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E9. Ducks are friendlier to newcomers than chickens are.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EAnyone who has tried to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/04\/adding-to-established-flock-pullet.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eadd new chickens to their chicken flock\u003C\/a\u003E knows just how difficult it can be - and how badly it can go. Chickens are very competitive and take their pecking order extremely seriously and don't like any additions to the flock that might put their spot in jeopardy.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks, on the other hand, are \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2020\/04\/adding-ducks-to-your-backyard-chicken.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efar more welcoming to new ducks.\u003C\/a\u003E I find that they get excited to have new friends! They don't adhere to any kind of strict pecking order and their attitude is \"the more the merrier\".\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003EWhile we're on that topic, ducks just have better dispositions in general. They are happy when the sun is out, they're happy when it's raining. They even seem to not mind snow.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThey are happy with some \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2013\/07\/healthy-treats-for-backyard-ducks.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eweeds tossed into a water bowl as treats\u003C\/a\u003E. I find ducks very easy to please. In contrast, I feel like I'm always letting my chickens down somehow. They just seem more judgey to me.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3F3NDge\" rel=\"nofollow\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"840\" data-original-width=\"3033\" height=\"139\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhxgDqIOrL8bhq7RwvvaiJ4CUHuj-sBSp9dSpAl0UbUCP5fSUb7bBT_V4ZhVop6OW-EcAf2uUwn8-20bYeuGY_Zk7IVB_fb22-XP6n72iOXtixuSMrhC3gGwT_27Zk0xfUSbBlrXhNs7lMkZDG5640KvxG4EYdABLLcyHqloq8HyTToVDjz7BOceb2jhlk\/w500-h139\/buy%20duck%20book.jpg\" width=\"500\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks don't usually pick on each other since they don't really care about a \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/04\/pecking-order-is-real-thing-in-chicken.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Epecking order\u003C\/a\u003E the way chickens do, and drakes are rarely people-aggressive like roosters can be (although young drakes in particular can be pretty \"excitable\" during spring mating season, so sometimes may need to be separated to give the females a break).\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EBut overall, adding to a duck flock is as easy as getting a new duck and setting it on the ground near the others. Period.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi5Y3JVxzcvk0TzWT4P0MHhDgP1lQH7afnw1ku69n0H2REKRuIFeDwwmfnQKhDPHcqW-nc2cdWDnx0O29lFkb-4yKJrI6nAaIUJydxf8MHcXObcHUqgeaEo3zPniEcsBgJAw2bJNhjG56dnyarUu5mhffW6QJNzxGlPJtByFUkW2ARmZlS45rzGffwtdeA\/s1076\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%205.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1076\" data-original-width=\"816\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi5Y3JVxzcvk0TzWT4P0MHhDgP1lQH7afnw1ku69n0H2REKRuIFeDwwmfnQKhDPHcqW-nc2cdWDnx0O29lFkb-4yKJrI6nAaIUJydxf8MHcXObcHUqgeaEo3zPniEcsBgJAw2bJNhjG56dnyarUu5mhffW6QJNzxGlPJtByFUkW2ARmZlS45rzGffwtdeA\/w486-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%205.jpg\" width=\"486\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E10. Ducks are easier on your landscaping.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EIf you raise chickens, you know how incredibly destructive they are to lawns and landscaping. They will kick all your mulch out of the flower beds, scratch up all your plants, and make depressions all over the yard to take their dust baths in.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EChickens will eat all your vegetables and hop over any fence you try to put up.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EDucks, in the other hand, are much easier on your landscaping. Not only are they less likely to be able to get over even a low fence, other than maybe trampling smaller plants (which are easy to cage until they get bigger), they rarely do much damage to landscaping.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EOur ducks \u003Ci\u003Ewill \u003C\/i\u003Emunch on our hostas if given the opportunity, but the plants come back up the following spring, no worries.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003EAnd for the most part when they free range, the ducks are more interesting in splashing in their pool or drilling down into the ground for worms and grubs (which is actually great for aerating your lawn!).\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgHZRF9wGJG6hG1gqlH9OmTUFuh7XZR9pBcT1gnMxpuAcMkQ512AxpnI5g_R-HxD41Nu5fTA9lh1wjaTLaxZ-TQuF3HpdfchFq3UuSL-vgc3ema66z0ffwoP0-MHn_xl5rcJ1hZfHYsNnVv5bLwq18io2PMbAO4r_WGN6ufGa33nsIM8qXvYgCa0NIFGGk\/s381\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%207.png\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"381\" data-original-width=\"265\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgHZRF9wGJG6hG1gqlH9OmTUFuh7XZR9pBcT1gnMxpuAcMkQ512AxpnI5g_R-HxD41Nu5fTA9lh1wjaTLaxZ-TQuF3HpdfchFq3UuSL-vgc3ema66z0ffwoP0-MHn_xl5rcJ1hZfHYsNnVv5bLwq18io2PMbAO4r_WGN6ufGa33nsIM8qXvYgCa0NIFGGk\/w446-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%207.png\" width=\"446\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E11. Ducks are a bit better at free ranging.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAlthough adult domestic ducks can't fly (other than mallards and call ducks), so they are extremely vulnerable to predators because they're pretty awkward and clumsy on dry land, ducks are actually \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/07\/5-tips-for-safer-free-ranging-for-your.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebetter at staying safe during free range time\u003C\/a\u003E than chickens are.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EThey have extremely good eyesight and always have one eye to the sky \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/09\/how-can-i-protect-my-chickens-from-hawks.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elooking for aerial predators.\u003C\/a\u003E And when they see one, unlike chickens who scramble and run for cover, the ducks freeze in place, watching until the coast is clear again. Much like a rabbit does when it senses danger.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EDucks instinctively know that they will never be able to outrun a predator, so they count on the fact that many predators hunt by looking for movement, and hope that by staying completely still, they won't be detected.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EOur ducks usually just congregate around their kiddie pool when I let them out to free range, so I can control where they are for the most part depending on where I fill the pool for them.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EThe ducks also stay together and travel as a group. They don't scatter all over the place like chickens do, so when it's time to round them up, they're much easier to herd than chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ci\u003EFun fact: you call chickens to come to you, but ducks you herd from behind. Just get one going in the right direction and they all will literally fall into line and follow that one. Just try doing that with chickens!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgDMBylEve9NnGcbjpyBJ7t7as4jhYRYERvJJ1MJzpubbHlJVZYhAxIor2HLpmJhGonblie_yH0jC4F7VSvleTVDMwxsJB-JJv8bfLzt8Zn3_oMmspdv5YWLrAe1uimUQ-x0AOd8_s5TEo7h8WXxrBTlNjeH3OpqZAbM-e0_SRoSn-vz6kymcYrC_630OU\/s1088\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%206.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1088\" data-original-width=\"863\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgDMBylEve9NnGcbjpyBJ7t7as4jhYRYERvJJ1MJzpubbHlJVZYhAxIor2HLpmJhGonblie_yH0jC4F7VSvleTVDMwxsJB-JJv8bfLzt8Zn3_oMmspdv5YWLrAe1uimUQ-x0AOd8_s5TEo7h8WXxrBTlNjeH3OpqZAbM-e0_SRoSn-vz6kymcYrC_630OU\/w508-h640\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%206.jpg\" width=\"508\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E12. Ducklings are adorable.\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EIf I haven't convinced you already to raise a few ducks, then here's my last argument. Ducklings are adorable.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EIf you think baby chicks are cute, you have never spent time with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/02\/basic-duckling-care-raising-healthy.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebrooder full of ducklings.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAnd of you're considering adding a few ducks,\u0026nbsp; be sure to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/search\/label\/ducks?max-results=100\u0026amp;m=1\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eread some of the articles\u003C\/a\u003E about raising ducks on my blog and pick up a copy of my book \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3QdiOL9\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EDuck Eggs Daily\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003EPin This!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhIDZb7PCgnSEl-VuIwAWNfBQS51ALipUfHBSkrv6GrbcXvCkpRnUcsh97KXaQSFP0q2YIUv4VZ8BsaPKu3o-zudHqChWmYmkSdDnanU_zjsTR9HghhWg2HAxET7-CnxctyeKx0ARtsTkXrfcOkjH0kMH80H2nZwnHRUx5fcDA9q7kjX0p7ywN1TVR0N2s\/s783\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"783\" data-original-width=\"579\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhIDZb7PCgnSEl-VuIwAWNfBQS51ALipUfHBSkrv6GrbcXvCkpRnUcsh97KXaQSFP0q2YIUv4VZ8BsaPKu3o-zudHqChWmYmkSdDnanU_zjsTR9HghhWg2HAxET7-CnxctyeKx0ARtsTkXrfcOkjH0kMH80H2nZwnHRUx5fcDA9q7kjX0p7ywN1TVR0N2s\/w296-h400\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" width=\"296\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\n\u003Ca aria-label=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" border=\"0\" class=\"nopin\" height=\"63\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/2.bp.blogspot.com\/-LzfL-AsLdTU\/WfPZKYaPmDI\/AAAAAAACUCk\/QkpCGTFRM2g0jLYH3119L0LxXrDprZdRwCLcBGAs\/s1600\/chicken-signature-2.png\" width=\"134\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FreshEggsDaily?fref=ts\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EFacebook\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ETwitter\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EInstagram\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EYouTube\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/view.flodesk.com\/pages\/6186a5660b51fd1569c5570b\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ESubscribe\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E©2023 by Fresh Eggs Daily, Inc. All rights reserved\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"blogger-post-footer\"\u003EArticle ©copyright protected by Fresh Eggs Daily Inc. All rights reserved. The original content appeared on www.fresheggsdaily.blog. You may use one photo and a portion of this article with credit.\u003C\/div\u003E"},"link":[{"rel":"edit","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/7365129284325400220"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/7365129284325400220"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/10\/12-reasons-why-ducks-are-better-than.html","title":"12 Reasons why Ducks are Better than Chickens"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"Lisa | Fresh Eggs Daily®"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/16766604467302444189"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi7Ivo8zOqv1Aej8HH2-4TUdhpSAmeSp5wQje1WbdbANsfNTTHZlgdm6l8ZH_fSR5tPwmZ-NvPdieOWe7AUTYKjrQo3tcSSOjUudil_QUjRTVWfKS2ir9sbnl0txwc6gQ\/s113\/pink-square.jpg"}}],"media$thumbnail":{"xmlns$media":"http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/","url":"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgva9OcZiBW18q6N2qxfb7AWvNGapilH6Ek13syKXSU6rlvwydgAh7vp4oPZITJE9ciusE4L-fPqARL5xp0Wd0s0HMX88dGvzx0UjG7r_SEK1lxtn1VX6x51AMCnW709bKWAOx6G7ElzEUL06yrS-Lok2RTVRqbyN9CpQlswHzFV4BpZ1ZPCbVPb90wNJE\/s72-w560-h640-c\/ducks%20are%20better%20than%20chickens%201.jpg","height":"72","width":"72"}},{"id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615.post-4933393482997279474"},"published":{"$t":"2023-09-23T14:24:00.003-04:00"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-09-23T15:49:26.583-04:00"},"category":[{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Chickens"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"treats"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"Girl Dinner: Sardines for Chickens"},"content":{"type":"html","$t":"\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003EEven chickens are getting in on the hot new \"girl dinner\" trend and enjoying sardines!\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhyurbfw80iA8QFfUQfxWV4cI_hJQw3ky4FoZSrDVSdjNvfBtqwGhFnrtP0C6VjXkC7hsTu_uh5zCpZsnxZYyfd3IShykZ5xzE7oEHjjC4KCZ3H7yMN1r8ipji1mOlEVJkdJgEILog0lpwfI15DjMQP2b6HKRlWrMQtUd55q-wOQpgLQGMxH7OdxZy60KU\/s1078\/sardines%20for%20chickens%202.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1078\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhyurbfw80iA8QFfUQfxWV4cI_hJQw3ky4FoZSrDVSdjNvfBtqwGhFnrtP0C6VjXkC7hsTu_uh5zCpZsnxZYyfd3IShykZ5xzE7oEHjjC4KCZ3H7yMN1r8ipji1mOlEVJkdJgEILog0lpwfI15DjMQP2b6HKRlWrMQtUd55q-wOQpgLQGMxH7OdxZy60KU\/w474-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%202.jpg\" width=\"474\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ci\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/i\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you're on Tiktok, you likely have seen one of the latest trends - namely, \"girl dinners\".\u0026nbsp; The term was \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2023\/07\/08\/style\/girl-dinner.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecoined by Olivia Maher\u003C\/a\u003E back in May \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@liviemaher\/video\/7232130214506057003\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ein a video she posted\u003C\/a\u003E that took off like fire.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd you also may have been \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/nypost.com\/2023\/08\/25\/new-nyc-sardine-palace-serves-fish-flaked-with-gold-amid-tiktok-craze\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewatching sardines going viral\u003C\/a\u003E as the ultimate new girl dinner.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca name='more'\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEilij-d_7ZZQOOUTwf5TnSgEO1Rc3oqO12cSRnu0_4gpEofh8ylZmTDEunSA_2J-U9KgTPIjn3pFNqcavtF4oIIrbN1pfw_--wAVx2ulUXeIVJueVaYSFF341zNQbx60Hx6AlEMmRKvE3CnBOVXLPPBUX_Pj8BKV2z0tXBLCXMRySB7Mtepir3ZdZFA9LQ\/s1357\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2012.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1357\" data-original-width=\"1007\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEilij-d_7ZZQOOUTwf5TnSgEO1Rc3oqO12cSRnu0_4gpEofh8ylZmTDEunSA_2J-U9KgTPIjn3pFNqcavtF4oIIrbN1pfw_--wAVx2ulUXeIVJueVaYSFF341zNQbx60Hx6AlEMmRKvE3CnBOVXLPPBUX_Pj8BKV2z0tXBLCXMRySB7Mtepir3ZdZFA9LQ\/w474-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2012.jpg\" width=\"474\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo I decided to do my own take on girl dinners, and share some sardines with my chickens! After all, they're girls too! And sardines are incredibly nutritious - and a great source of protein for them, especially \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/07\/molt-meatloaf.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eduring the fall molting season\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo to back up a bit for those who aren't familiar, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.today.com\/food\/trends\/girl-dinner-tiktok-trend-controversy-rcna92880\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea girl dinner\u003C\/a\u003E is basically a random assortment of (usually snack\/junk) foods and condiments that can be eaten right from the bag or box or standing over the sink.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore like grazing and not necessarily adequate calorie-wise, the whole concept has become a bit controversial.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut not where sardines are concerned. Of late, some people have been pushing back and making the girl dinners \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sleek-mag.com\/article\/sleek-top-10-reinventing-girl-dinner\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emore nutritious by including sardines.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhis0b-eRFGq_9YLdCDWFG4nrZsrTVLMhMm7YSYu0hy6D4ba40UoIpvn3cEClHQ2cMWfo58U4swNgpOUB2DRRwHf70pjKywY5eWbcEcED47K1SkV5LxrDIhHF4iAg21ZYfOCPcNfaAYklkqRwe-JsuLvI3hlcO3Qki300e2jXI_XwdUvaOgC8FKOgEuBlQ\/s1104\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2015.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1104\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhis0b-eRFGq_9YLdCDWFG4nrZsrTVLMhMm7YSYu0hy6D4ba40UoIpvn3cEClHQ2cMWfo58U4swNgpOUB2DRRwHf70pjKywY5eWbcEcED47K1SkV5LxrDIhHF4iAg21ZYfOCPcNfaAYklkqRwe-JsuLvI3hlcO3Qki300e2jXI_XwdUvaOgC8FKOgEuBlQ\/w464-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2015.jpg\" width=\"464\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy Own Personal Experience with Sardines\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPersonally, sardines would be about the last thing I would ever eat. A little backstory...\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGrowing up, my mom used to make my brother and me sardine sandwiches on homemade wholewheat bread for lunch. She was convinced that the sardines would make us smarter.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E(As an aside, my brother is an electrical engineer with a degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, so I guess it worked!)\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnyway, they were disgusting. My brother used to sit at the table making gagging noises the whole time we were eating.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMy mom would have to set a timer for us to finish or we would sit there all afternoon. We finally figured out if we took a huge bite and then excused ourselves to use the bathroom, we could flush a good portion down the toilet!\u0026nbsp; And in the summer, when we ate lunch outside at the picnic table, our cat definitely got his share of sardines slipped to him under the table. Oh, such happy childhood memories.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnyway, I think my Mom finally gave up because my brother and I were so difficult! And she was an amazing baker, so then she started doing lots of baking, which might not have made us any smarter, but sure made everyone happier!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo, no. A sardine is nothing I want to eat. But enough about me.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe chickens on the other hand....\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiBdXYN_1srQrJQgTZYFeyJVJV6FAFVRIOo25H7xE_tM8bKOHdzKCxulRGfm7o3aIh3awMSa-9iYLlDp2M8GzlKqwG9VgUBwxX3XhgA3sP5mg8f0YqhaLae2bCG_KearrEItDpZ2YClbyXV0uKGnmw779LeV6kRrcrhCM08ca0LzxNkl3mPa_pz0UtuBx0\/s1179\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2011.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1179\" data-original-width=\"895\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiBdXYN_1srQrJQgTZYFeyJVJV6FAFVRIOo25H7xE_tM8bKOHdzKCxulRGfm7o3aIh3awMSa-9iYLlDp2M8GzlKqwG9VgUBwxX3XhgA3sP5mg8f0YqhaLae2bCG_KearrEItDpZ2YClbyXV0uKGnmw779LeV6kRrcrhCM08ca0LzxNkl3mPa_pz0UtuBx0\/w486-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2011.jpg\" width=\"486\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGirl Dinner: Sardines for Chickens\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChickens are omnivores, which means that they can (and will) eat almost anything. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and meat and fish scraps are all healthy treats for chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESardines have loads of health benefits for chickens. Plus, they love them. And as an added bonus, they're one of the more inexpensive types of canned fish.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd since they come tinned, they'll last a long time in the pantry, so you can stock up and then feed them to your flock as an occasional treat.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESardines are especially beneficial during the annual molt to provide extra protein to help your chickens regrow new feathers. Sardines can also help if you're seeing \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/04\/soft-shelled-or-rubber-eggs-causes-and.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esoft-shelled or brittle-shelled eggs\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ci\u003ENote: You want to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3RxoCS5\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebuy the sardines\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;in spring water or plain oil with no salt added for your chickens. There's loads of nutrition in both the skin and bones, so be sure you're getting the whole fish. The bones are very soft, so there's no worry about your chickens choking on them.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEghC4QMUpkUo7n_4W8sZMHBxK7FArgNBUmXOhLZ3xbnVnybqjhTw7dyYcgU2m6Ps3mkdQj4vZDh3K8Jnx16Z2FulG2O_51yFF81eGqBREFViSB5PhOnsPnO4zt66Lq6qvz7hmfIF4WQc7uCdhp018ramXr_KwO4q0Fz0eriykt3uFDSw7MOLpZBXBFxnOk\/s962\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2013.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"962\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEghC4QMUpkUo7n_4W8sZMHBxK7FArgNBUmXOhLZ3xbnVnybqjhTw7dyYcgU2m6Ps3mkdQj4vZDh3K8Jnx16Z2FulG2O_51yFF81eGqBREFViSB5PhOnsPnO4zt66Lq6qvz7hmfIF4WQc7uCdhp018ramXr_KwO4q0Fz0eriykt3uFDSw7MOLpZBXBFxnOk\/w532-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2013.jpg\" width=\"532\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHealth Benefits of Sardines\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHealth benefits of sardines include:\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOmega-3 fatty acids\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOmega-6 fatty acids\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003ECalcium\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProtein\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVitamin A\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVitamin B\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EVitamin D\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EIron\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003EOmega-3 Fatty Acids\u003C\/b\u003E support cardiovascular, brain and heart health. Chicks hatched from eggs laid by hens that are \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2021\/02\/the-benefits-of-flax-seed-and-omega-3.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Efed supplemental Omega-3s\u003C\/a\u003E tend to be healthier as well.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cb\u003EOmega-6 Fatty Acids\u003C\/b\u003E improve skin and bone health and support the reproductive system.\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECalcium \u003C\/b\u003Ehelps create strong eggshells and \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/04\/soft-shelled-or-rubber-eggs-causes-and.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eproduce the contractions needed to lay an egg\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003EProtein \u003C\/b\u003Ehelps \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5884466\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Emaintain healthy body weight\u003C\/a\u003E and keep the body strong. Adequate protein is needed for optimal laying.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003EVitamin A\u003C\/b\u003E helps with vision and also \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC10215127\/#:~:text=Vitamin%20A%20supplementation%20(15%2C000%20IU,quality%20%5B64%2C65%5D.\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eimproves egg production and quality.\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;Chickens that don't get enough Vitamin A won't lay well and the hatchability of their eggs will decrease.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003EVitamin B\u003C\/b\u003E \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/poultrydvm.com\/drugs\/vitamin-b-complex#:~:text=Vitamin%20B%20complex%20are%20water,of%20the%20central%20nervous%20system.\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esupports the nervous system\u003C\/a\u003E and aids digestion. Because the B vitamins are water-soluble and not stored in the body, it's important that chickens get a steady supply in their diet.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cb\u003EVitamin D\u003C\/b\u003E helps with calcium absorption, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0032579119578816#:~:text=Vitamin%20D%20plays%20a%20major,et%20al.%2C%202003).\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eimproves eggshell quality\u003C\/a\u003E and skin quality. Since \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/birdsupplies.com\/blogs\/news\/the-role-of-vitamin-d-in-feather-plucking-birds-and-how-to-help-your-bird\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Echickens can't manufacture their own Vitamin D\u003C\/a\u003E, they need to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2021\/04\/why-chickens-need-sunshine.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eget it from sunlight\u003C\/a\u003E or the foods they eat.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cb\u003EIron \u003C\/b\u003Eis important for metabolism and \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S003257911958021X#:~:text=Iron%20(Fe)%20is%20one%20of,et%20al.%2C%202014).\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eproper oxygen supply in a chicken's body\u003C\/a\u003E. Iron also aids the immune system. Without enough iron, a chicken will get lethargic and lose their appetite.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EClearly there are lots of health benefits in a tin of sardines! And since I wasn't planning on eating any, our chickens would be the recipients.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEikI5D7IZfw2yMtAU3vB0-rwSS5h4MIdNUAFQzkl2C-NmH-8MhA5gYH9Cbx4F-ZBwfPnUCSIwHY9IwQ5mxlwVos3lt3V7HNo22wBO0ehKnOhMElGDngAQtS9JMyBK2uposvMJX4inaV66IKq6CxYsne6X2F-tKVFsFZEbRMjEWinOVBy7YW1ZtGpRS4ilA\/s1174\/sardines%20for%20chickens%201.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1174\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEikI5D7IZfw2yMtAU3vB0-rwSS5h4MIdNUAFQzkl2C-NmH-8MhA5gYH9Cbx4F-ZBwfPnUCSIwHY9IwQ5mxlwVos3lt3V7HNo22wBO0ehKnOhMElGDngAQtS9JMyBK2uposvMJX4inaV66IKq6CxYsne6X2F-tKVFsFZEbRMjEWinOVBy7YW1ZtGpRS4ilA\/w436-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%201.jpg\" width=\"436\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EGirl Dinner: Sardine Salad for Chickens\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ESo here's what I decided to do. I made my chickens a beautiful \"girl dinner\" - a salad with spinach, nasturtium, garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil and sardines! And they absolutely loved it!\u0026nbsp;\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003EThey went for the sardines first, but they ended up cleaning the plate.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThey love nasturtium (which is \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/04\/pumpkin-soup-nasturtiums-natural.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethought to work as a natural wormer\u003C\/a\u003E by the way), the \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/01\/holistic-trinity-acv-garlic-and-de.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eapple cider vinegar has great respiratory benefits\u003C\/a\u003E for them, and the \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/03\/garlic-infused-apple-cider-vinegar-for.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egarlic is great for their immune systems\u003C\/a\u003E (also can help with parasites). Leafy greens are a favorite of course, although \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/06\/the-danger-of-feeding-too-much-spinach.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etoo much spinach can be a problem,\u003C\/a\u003E so that's definitely an occasional treat for them.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EBut think about feeding your chickens some sardines this fall to help them with their molting and give them a treat that they will really love - that's really good for them.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi_xLVTopu4Je1tPMUx7HOpvhpJ35KKsKXe1hLEmVXPXfqBEUjvUHMHaiA9kqfSPj-nJMjRtw-yr_xkxzXiVLFDjIhQ2cWozWCqABT4Imz0o9eJrsXT_zou9TkLXukYmVJpJbhkCb2xaSDMvTdFGSml9vUmbBlSqQ2_RqHvrSntV3_N5ifhE44vKpwn4GA\/s977\/sardines%20for%20chickens%206.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"977\" data-original-width=\"778\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi_xLVTopu4Je1tPMUx7HOpvhpJ35KKsKXe1hLEmVXPXfqBEUjvUHMHaiA9kqfSPj-nJMjRtw-yr_xkxzXiVLFDjIhQ2cWozWCqABT4Imz0o9eJrsXT_zou9TkLXukYmVJpJbhkCb2xaSDMvTdFGSml9vUmbBlSqQ2_RqHvrSntV3_N5ifhE44vKpwn4GA\/w510-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%206.jpg\" width=\"510\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiaUVp_HWh3rrsAoRXl8aVzj14Zy3piWhyugSx-LZI6kJ_l9gRyfSjNS6j3LPZT1S100dTRfj93aHpkIXyKmwqi1a3a6Mfs-Q3GV4wKfim_M5yqP3qnV4MYkUPGqdcjBPRSRMoX0Gsz_okkwjSFzdUNHbRN8c7-7iTYseQ-PPj0P32_Z0xyEs3pcgVfPhA\/s1029\/sardines%20for%20chickens%209.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1029\" data-original-width=\"837\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiaUVp_HWh3rrsAoRXl8aVzj14Zy3piWhyugSx-LZI6kJ_l9gRyfSjNS6j3LPZT1S100dTRfj93aHpkIXyKmwqi1a3a6Mfs-Q3GV4wKfim_M5yqP3qnV4MYkUPGqdcjBPRSRMoX0Gsz_okkwjSFzdUNHbRN8c7-7iTYseQ-PPj0P32_Z0xyEs3pcgVfPhA\/w520-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%209.jpg\" width=\"520\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEinQW-uJ7y2VaqMFrUNayt6nhSvRvCw8OLSY_50zpJhcsn2Ot2WQvi2YhBu53slCEYrBqh-5fMJyjPLoG7sG3nGWz7sPjDd8oQkX1YRwk16qft38j_0Kd1IxA1m-_7Z6QZPObA5TZFRd9WOBvu1RtjLNef1n1_OIz9S3SxtOdji8Md-AQZ_EAYbayBl9MA\/s1203\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2010.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1203\" data-original-width=\"898\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEinQW-uJ7y2VaqMFrUNayt6nhSvRvCw8OLSY_50zpJhcsn2Ot2WQvi2YhBu53slCEYrBqh-5fMJyjPLoG7sG3nGWz7sPjDd8oQkX1YRwk16qft38j_0Kd1IxA1m-_7Z6QZPObA5TZFRd9WOBvu1RtjLNef1n1_OIz9S3SxtOdji8Md-AQZ_EAYbayBl9MA\/w478-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%2010.jpg\" width=\"478\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh_GdOQUEVQGVxwbBUwBdQ0TL9n_vIrFIMmospecdkQPXfAc1ZeX1B4QEoJAdU3RjuDBYg-GP-dAJp-Lmaw1bCLdfQDrizN05rNa2QkLwikWyRu8kvJjn2dKESOvxwXbeAVNUt-5E6-0WMGJXANoLuHZF4dpBRIjKLMDtdJqzSxYpiLP39pMrJ7XG_oxwg\/s1055\/sardines%20for%20chickens%208.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1055\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh_GdOQUEVQGVxwbBUwBdQ0TL9n_vIrFIMmospecdkQPXfAc1ZeX1B4QEoJAdU3RjuDBYg-GP-dAJp-Lmaw1bCLdfQDrizN05rNa2QkLwikWyRu8kvJjn2dKESOvxwXbeAVNUt-5E6-0WMGJXANoLuHZF4dpBRIjKLMDtdJqzSxYpiLP39pMrJ7XG_oxwg\/w486-h640\/sardines%20for%20chickens%208.jpg\" width=\"486\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; 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You may use one photo and a portion of this article with credit.\u003C\/div\u003E"},"link":[{"rel":"edit","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/4933393482997279474"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/4933393482997279474"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/09\/girl-dinner-sardines-for-chickens.html","title":"Girl Dinner: Sardines for Chickens"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"Lisa | Fresh Eggs Daily®"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/16766604467302444189"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi7Ivo8zOqv1Aej8HH2-4TUdhpSAmeSp5wQje1WbdbANsfNTTHZlgdm6l8ZH_fSR5tPwmZ-NvPdieOWe7AUTYKjrQo3tcSSOjUudil_QUjRTVWfKS2ir9sbnl0txwc6gQ\/s113\/pink-square.jpg"}}],"media$thumbnail":{"xmlns$media":"http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/","url":"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhyurbfw80iA8QFfUQfxWV4cI_hJQw3ky4FoZSrDVSdjNvfBtqwGhFnrtP0C6VjXkC7hsTu_uh5zCpZsnxZYyfd3IShykZ5xzE7oEHjjC4KCZ3H7yMN1r8ipji1mOlEVJkdJgEILog0lpwfI15DjMQP2b6HKRlWrMQtUd55q-wOQpgLQGMxH7OdxZy60KU\/s72-w474-h640-c\/sardines%20for%20chickens%202.jpg","height":"72","width":"72"}},{"id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615.post-8196431300319257175"},"published":{"$t":"2023-09-08T19:17:00.002-04:00"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-09-08T20:26:39.945-04:00"},"category":[{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Beginner"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Chickens"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"What Should I Feed my Chickens?"},"content":{"type":"html","$t":"\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003EChickens require a balanced diet for optimal health and egg production.\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjCVp_c0b4DxQZISIcRTopV0P4WCGlLfI_aP1kbLmEl30q20VUqHXzdKBwA3iZfdgbqTlkbY7rRA3UfVY9QMqoXbN1HQUyUYS_93qjEAilgFlSjUMnhQSjKT2eKj-QS3xqXkLUNI8hhttbcnd7tFgth3_ap61fgSfhwJPr009X9Im2BxqWQ46jLT9cpkFs\/s1024\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1024\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjCVp_c0b4DxQZISIcRTopV0P4WCGlLfI_aP1kbLmEl30q20VUqHXzdKBwA3iZfdgbqTlkbY7rRA3UfVY9QMqoXbN1HQUyUYS_93qjEAilgFlSjUMnhQSjKT2eKj-QS3xqXkLUNI8hhttbcnd7tFgth3_ap61fgSfhwJPr009X9Im2BxqWQ46jLT9cpkFs\/w500-h640\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens.jpg\" width=\"500\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ci\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/i\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ELike all animals, and people too, chickens need a balanced diet to stay healthy and live long lives.\u0026nbsp;\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ca name='more'\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EBut what exactly does that mean?\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EI get lots of questions asking \"what should I feed my chickens?\" There's starter feed, grower feed, and layer feed. There are organic and non-GMO options.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EAnd there is pelleted feed, crumbled feed and whole grain feed. Then there's cracked corn and scratch grains.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EIt can all get a bit confusing.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh8CvhBwHtwXay6zCTUfNL9rKpSggeI9cPCGfmswrKGC6Ir4L5RWvR6kYBvDJ3ok4x8U44eQks3dyclJ1fYGzpYyIPyWiZ_kaAx0E72zpe2OxPMIrly-64DNiEhWsfRtZrkQBQOKz1y1RNlThCwxgT_Zmjy6ByyLZ2CP6Xq4JdYaWHnL0hatwQLoA6Nv3c\/s604\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%202.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"604\" data-original-width=\"465\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh8CvhBwHtwXay6zCTUfNL9rKpSggeI9cPCGfmswrKGC6Ir4L5RWvR6kYBvDJ3ok4x8U44eQks3dyclJ1fYGzpYyIPyWiZ_kaAx0E72zpe2OxPMIrly-64DNiEhWsfRtZrkQBQOKz1y1RNlThCwxgT_Zmjy6ByyLZ2CP6Xq4JdYaWHnL0hatwQLoA6Nv3c\/w492-h640\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%202.jpg\" width=\"492\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EWhat Should I Feed my Chickens?\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EMaybe even more so than other types of livestock, chickens specifically need to be fed the proper ratios and amounts of nutrients since they expend so much energy laying their eggs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2019\/07\/guidelines-for-feeding-baby-chicks.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGrowing chicks\u003C\/a\u003E, of course,\u0026nbsp;require different amounts of protein and calcium than mature birds, so \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/12\/quick-reference-feed-guide-chick-to.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ethis handy feed chart \u003C\/a\u003Ecan help you navigate the different feed formulas as your chickens get older, as well as answer questions about what to feed a flock of different ages.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EChicken Layer Feed\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EBut for the majority of their adult lives, chickens should be eating layer feed.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EContrary to what some people believe, switching to the layer feed won't magically\u0026nbsp;\u003Ci\u003Emake\u003C\/i\u003E\u0026nbsp;your hens lay, but it will provide them the proper amounts of calcium.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EIf they don't have adequate calcium for their eggshells, laying hens will begin to leach the calcium from their bones to make their eggshells So, layer feed is extremely important in a hen's diet.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHowever, feeding layer feed to younger, non-laying chickens can lead to kidney problems later in life, so it's important to wait until they're close to POL (Point of Lay) to switch them to the layer feed.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHealthy treats are an important part of a chicken's diet as well, but \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/12\/how-many-treats-should-i-feed-my.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Etreats should be limited to about 10% of the diet\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and the healthier - think leafy greens, vegetables and lean proteins - the better.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhJbBqfOWiHGGCw8b6EmUVS1A6i10OZ_kPv5O6IEg2YoCmXbWZRIh0c9jJerrsoBxd_0eMkP66KCH-5QtNW3rq1n-IKjrxRaN8hBLHda1mfTV4FJIBc2p_oWND2Wyi8Kl7Wte2JNkWBC7sCvHkm5D4DG1PyP11zYU_kTt1JuRtkzPD3Kj0CzLR_t_MALGg\/s1013\/chickens%20eating%20feed.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1013\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhJbBqfOWiHGGCw8b6EmUVS1A6i10OZ_kPv5O6IEg2YoCmXbWZRIh0c9jJerrsoBxd_0eMkP66KCH-5QtNW3rq1n-IKjrxRaN8hBLHda1mfTV4FJIBc2p_oWND2Wyi8Kl7Wte2JNkWBC7sCvHkm5D4DG1PyP11zYU_kTt1JuRtkzPD3Kj0CzLR_t_MALGg\/w506-h640\/chickens%20eating%20feed.jpg\" width=\"506\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EOrganic vs. Non-Organic Chicken Feed\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThe decision to feed organic feed to your flock or not is a personal one. Organic feed is more expensive and can be harder to find.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThere are also non-GMO options, or feeds made without corn and soy - two of the largest GMO crops.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EIf you can't afford organic feed or can't easily source it, don't feel bad. By raising chickens you're still being more sustainable, knowing where your food comes from, and you're providing a healthier diet for your family.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh3EKfcy-yGpGAJXhhEtUplwhFvWcHXHVxd1jrmrg0UIRRNAXTUVGfjOw69SyfDSE3ZMd9YIyae07xX8ruySFZ8gr0NNrP8PSC3eOEsG8xK65wf5Qtfp41QYmVKiHXDd7FuUBQ8lZk2fS_Pynu8_bPP0UxgMQUDfnHEGQayskLv4AusrjigER7cM05AFk8\/s756\/types%20of%20chicken%20layer%20feed.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"756\" data-original-width=\"533\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEh3EKfcy-yGpGAJXhhEtUplwhFvWcHXHVxd1jrmrg0UIRRNAXTUVGfjOw69SyfDSE3ZMd9YIyae07xX8ruySFZ8gr0NNrP8PSC3eOEsG8xK65wf5Qtfp41QYmVKiHXDd7FuUBQ8lZk2fS_Pynu8_bPP0UxgMQUDfnHEGQayskLv4AusrjigER7cM05AFk8\/w452-h640\/types%20of%20chicken%20layer%20feed.jpg\" width=\"452\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3\u003ETypes of Chicken Layer Feed\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EOnce your chickens are laying, around 18 or 20 weeks old, they should be fed a good-quality layer feed. Layer feed has elevated levels of calcium that hens need to lay\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/04\/soft-shelled-or-rubber-eggs-causes-and.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eeggs with nice strong shells\u003C\/a\u003E.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThere are several forms of layer feed to choose from. One isn't better than another. It comes down to personal preference, availability, and your budget.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhkD-YmBieWDY3hqoFs9P1BaZtNm3yoagNJrNXB-jD_Brp6AJCSmKAtA-4ZcMhUcGDGgZ6MX7HPffvGCJskxvjoOiS3mIx8luKjlQF8jjWbkhYlOij863HnI2eu8IG_4pOmOMdOHLquIQL8l8hZrxutcpfXb1HJHaVEOAjZDqLEXnTke275_TQhjM-1UJ0\/s1126\/chicken%20feed%20pellets.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1126\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhkD-YmBieWDY3hqoFs9P1BaZtNm3yoagNJrNXB-jD_Brp6AJCSmKAtA-4ZcMhUcGDGgZ6MX7HPffvGCJskxvjoOiS3mIx8luKjlQF8jjWbkhYlOij863HnI2eu8IG_4pOmOMdOHLquIQL8l8hZrxutcpfXb1HJHaVEOAjZDqLEXnTke275_TQhjM-1UJ0\/w454-h640\/chicken%20feed%20pellets.jpg\" width=\"454\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EPellets\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThe most common form of chicken layer feed is the pelleted form. The various ingredients are pressed into pellets that are easy for the chickens to pick up in their beaks - and ensures that they're getting a balanced set of ingredients in every bite.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EYour local feed store should carry several various brands of layer feed to choose from or you can \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3sMLuCU\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elook online for layer pellets.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWMLVatTOtJVFnIPYLSVYo2a2iTKEVTJ_YPQX9Fr7Fmlh8W9Q5WXP9yI-VMAq00J5zXS_9lEOyK4sbnidBhlQKLPkFk6LajwjLewdXiZhodSp4oAYzollyqbMGIQfjOuzYiPwGgnl9za0nlB5qtjmLzIDtL8OKC_E9p8SL5cOi6uuZCd9VSSMxGmofuL4\/s1221\/crumble%20chicken%20feed.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1221\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWMLVatTOtJVFnIPYLSVYo2a2iTKEVTJ_YPQX9Fr7Fmlh8W9Q5WXP9yI-VMAq00J5zXS_9lEOyK4sbnidBhlQKLPkFk6LajwjLewdXiZhodSp4oAYzollyqbMGIQfjOuzYiPwGgnl9za0nlB5qtjmLzIDtL8OKC_E9p8SL5cOi6uuZCd9VSSMxGmofuL4\/w420-h640\/crumble%20chicken%20feed.jpg\" width=\"420\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ECrumbles\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ECrumbles are the next most common form of chicken layer feed. Crumbles are just pellets that have been pulverized.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThe pieces are smaller, so some chickens seem to prefer them. Also, chick feed is crumble-sized, so it's something they're used to. Again, crumbles ensure a balanced bite.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EYour local feed store should also offer a choice of crumbled feed or you can \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/48kuJzp\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Elook online for layer crumble.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiR4qAsJm2MFCi-xwo-TegoyXW9dFy8C6stlxs3WYdBOMuKU3cIV2esv1SmojGzO1klcD_3-YZ0Xa1MzDvfqbNdSKy3weLhAN371Ka9FKE3zPBSt86s2RQ6tLd6tLY_NGVw-dM_hmRCfmbsjTMYJ-coZdOPKbnOgxIP97Qz033S-gW8RgOXyRhZdzXhDVY\/s1022\/chicken%20feed%20mash%202.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1022\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"611\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiR4qAsJm2MFCi-xwo-TegoyXW9dFy8C6stlxs3WYdBOMuKU3cIV2esv1SmojGzO1klcD_3-YZ0Xa1MzDvfqbNdSKy3weLhAN371Ka9FKE3zPBSt86s2RQ6tLd6tLY_NGVw-dM_hmRCfmbsjTMYJ-coZdOPKbnOgxIP97Qz033S-gW8RgOXyRhZdzXhDVY\/w477-h611\/chicken%20feed%20mash%202.jpg\" width=\"477\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EMash\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EMash is a powder-ish form of chicken feed. It's made from unprocessed whole grains and seeds. Not particularly common, I personally find it too dusty.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EI think if you're going to feed mash, it's best to add a little water to it to make a slurry for your chickens to make it easier for them to eat.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EMash is generally sold at local grain mills.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhNY_6-kzBIk_T307Yfy4OOfAo0ggxg1wwh0qbGyrw6hk99oIxytDBtzuDsriF3Ij9aj8irBe3s50HML-7AfmUqBBbOu2VST1leVxAUAfiPdLY8qWhKVwbcHFpMUAjE4-INUDhvH58URzpA8OPPMwwvZHRsIzFr_RmfqQ6ghIDnUlbjJTaKCRaQMuOxQyc\/s1146\/whole%20grain%20chicken%20feed.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1146\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhNY_6-kzBIk_T307Yfy4OOfAo0ggxg1wwh0qbGyrw6hk99oIxytDBtzuDsriF3Ij9aj8irBe3s50HML-7AfmUqBBbOu2VST1leVxAUAfiPdLY8qWhKVwbcHFpMUAjE4-INUDhvH58URzpA8OPPMwwvZHRsIzFr_RmfqQ6ghIDnUlbjJTaKCRaQMuOxQyc\/w446-h640\/whole%20grain%20chicken%20feed.jpg\" width=\"446\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EWhole\/Cracked Grain\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThis is the most expensive form of layer feed and can often be hard to find except for online. \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/45FNMCv\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EOften non-GMO or organic\u003C\/a\u003E, this feed formula includes things like whole or split peas, whole wheat, sunflower seeds, etc.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EVery popular with chickens, some owners worry that their chickens pick out the things they like best and leave the rest, resulting in an unbalanced diet.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EPersonally, I feel that chickens know what they need best and ultimately, it all ends up working out.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThe best selection of whole\/cracked grain layer feed \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3sGFQC5\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecan be found online.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhdVq-kpi5Mq4sKNXmqGJzkcGJ9V3C_JAZfktJzraX731_E3D-9DnHjpkD0LnUcdvjdY-heCD4rnd8tkWndFEI3TGEj8wGe3oZwsdgKkXc59IWNV4fYrgTZ-AbLEhkHdUHcaz6VMzAUxkPYqBAj7qe3E8A3zCA5TKuCgvb6X7Ii2JaH0TYS4JYcNhe3i2Y\/s667\/scratchgrains-2.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"667\" data-original-width=\"553\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhdVq-kpi5Mq4sKNXmqGJzkcGJ9V3C_JAZfktJzraX731_E3D-9DnHjpkD0LnUcdvjdY-heCD4rnd8tkWndFEI3TGEj8wGe3oZwsdgKkXc59IWNV4fYrgTZ-AbLEhkHdUHcaz6VMzAUxkPYqBAj7qe3E8A3zCA5TKuCgvb6X7Ii2JaH0TYS4JYcNhe3i2Y\/w530-h640\/scratchgrains-2.jpg\" width=\"530\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ETypes of Chicken Treats\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EScratch Grains\/Cracked Corn\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ENeither \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/01\/scratch-grains-winter-treat-for-chickens.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Escratch grains\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;nor cracked corn are a balanced diet for chickens. Scratch grains are a blend of healthy seeds and grains, but they're not mixed in any set formula to provide optimal protein for chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ECracked corn provides energy, but not much nutrition.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ESo scratch grains and cracked corn should both be reserved for occasional treats, and preferably just during the cold weather. Just a tablespoon or two per chicken is the perfect \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/12\/how-many-treats-should-i-feed-my.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eamount of scratch grains to feed them.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EThese products are generally sold in 50-pound bags at your local feed store or \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4878nkr\"\u003Eonline.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EI suggest offering treats of any kind only in the late afternoon, once they've already filled up on their feed.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgMBGPWD0unLUIjZ6ZPuuv7JihZbTaUilCDjFIJTduG0mkaSS6y_RLA6jFglGd0qXqwMLIPE6Ni5GZNly2M1nWVLen-h_rkkhY4ClCqVyoMCmgo63HSu3nC_Ukzxu5re45p8UyG7jPirLQGyi93JgzDhZAlnd1-r_L7EuSOrXBmZt-sGFIddALViFGfqEA\/s1050\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%203.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1050\" data-original-width=\"819\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgMBGPWD0unLUIjZ6ZPuuv7JihZbTaUilCDjFIJTduG0mkaSS6y_RLA6jFglGd0qXqwMLIPE6Ni5GZNly2M1nWVLen-h_rkkhY4ClCqVyoMCmgo63HSu3nC_Ukzxu5re45p8UyG7jPirLQGyi93JgzDhZAlnd1-r_L7EuSOrXBmZt-sGFIddALViFGfqEA\/w500-h640\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%203.jpg\" width=\"500\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EFinal Thoughts on Feeding Chickens\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EA\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/02\/how-much-feed-does-chicken-eat.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Echicken will eat about 1\/2 cup of feed per day\u003C\/a\u003E. Just as much as she needs to get her daily energy and nutrient requirements.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ESince chickens won't overeat, you can leave feed out for them during the day and let them nibble and pick at it as they wish. Make sure they always have fresh, clean water any time you offer food.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EFeeding outside in the run will keep any moisture, mold, flies or rodents out of your chicken coop,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/03\/three-secrets-to-clean-chicken-coop.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ekeep the coop much cleaner\u003C\/a\u003E and make it a healthier environment for your flock.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2016\/12\/besides-feed-what-else-does-chicken-need.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EIn addition to their daily feed\u003C\/a\u003E, chickens also need a calcium supplement, either \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3sLJFpQ\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecrushed oyster shell\u003C\/a\u003E or \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/02\/crushing-eggshells.html\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecrushed eggshell\u003C\/a\u003E, which should always be offered free-choice so each hen can eat as much or as little as she needs.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EChickens also need some sort of grit which they use to grind up the food they eat \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/08\/how-do-chickens-eat-with-no-teeth.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Esince they don't have teeth\u003C\/a\u003E to do the job. If your flock free ranges, they'll pick up the coarse dirt and small stones they need, if not, you can buy \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3EzIfkV\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecommercial grit\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi4NFGThPLNyvbP3pNlFzW38uc9U8ECFxUo19jIbYSoQ9ziYTzPJHeeY26ShCEXIgor177o7zaXCAN1WlVTggwYIpJkU745OcKfbdkg9ik8_xte4UGlXH5_lAhAVK66kSvPM0fQLioWt2qSZ268DtVqIHsKY5P2cVI44kwYHZJsx_4mXgUBA1x7FObEkD8\/s1168\/feeding%20ducks.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1168\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi4NFGThPLNyvbP3pNlFzW38uc9U8ECFxUo19jIbYSoQ9ziYTzPJHeeY26ShCEXIgor177o7zaXCAN1WlVTggwYIpJkU745OcKfbdkg9ik8_xte4UGlXH5_lAhAVK66kSvPM0fQLioWt2qSZ268DtVqIHsKY5P2cVI44kwYHZJsx_4mXgUBA1x7FObEkD8\/w438-h640\/feeding%20ducks.jpg\" width=\"438\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EOne Note on Feeding Ducks\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EWe also raise ducks. Our ducks share the coop and run with our chickens and eat the same chicken layer feed diet as the chickens do.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EBecause \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/05\/ducks-need-niacin-aka-ducks-love-peas.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Educks need more niacin\u003C\/a\u003E than chickens do - and more than is typically in chicken feed - I add \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.chewy.com\/fresh-eggs-daily-brewers-yeast-garlic\/dp\/256475\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EBrewers Yeast with Garlic\u003C\/a\u003E to my flock's daily feed. The ducks need the niacin in the yeast for strong bones, and it's also super nutritious for the chickens.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EYou can find my entire line of \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.chewy.com\/brands\/fresh-eggs-daily-12522\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eall natural poultry supplements here\u003C\/a\u003E. They help to support strong immune, respiratory, digestive and circulatory systems.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.chewy.com\/brands\/fresh-eggs-daily-12522\" rel=\"nofollow\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1100\" data-original-width=\"2268\" height=\"310\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEisQRq14Lxsul2--GSLRKTQ9uCHRyK0oNXfbcZidc5y2MAAurv4aBXBgJJ4lDWK0uOC62Rj8tPl3joZh2M9ym23m-DeoCxTVGyHk-35L3kvbJ5ddmHiqTysLSi5SAHRrTa9Bs_Dw2HYnchE87GqgqPbgkmz0-p-reSDL99Fg2pogGmX3_t5AES_7DyCHSw\/w640-h310\/Screenshot%202023-07-19%2010.30.24%20AM.png\" width=\"640\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003EPin This!\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjiHX65HfW_djuXoW_aZTgjw5WEvnneHYjS_GsNqoA6e3S3tVrktVY8dxvOtTTfV4fTaYDsgqf-wy6fen83-YwZORypm8PGRWsQX8GFohFDbzRETNen1DZSJDcs6FarO8IJbaaAl9D01cYKYuI4Wv0J33Rg8hsgFOOo1vZBbOQ9SmVfqi_UAVFHhCl8cwM\/s1024\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1024\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjiHX65HfW_djuXoW_aZTgjw5WEvnneHYjS_GsNqoA6e3S3tVrktVY8dxvOtTTfV4fTaYDsgqf-wy6fen83-YwZORypm8PGRWsQX8GFohFDbzRETNen1DZSJDcs6FarO8IJbaaAl9D01cYKYuI4Wv0J33Rg8hsgFOOo1vZBbOQ9SmVfqi_UAVFHhCl8cwM\/w313-h400\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" width=\"313\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ci\u003EReferences\/Further Reading\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ca data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/phys.org\/news\/2023-09-disconnect-poultry-dietary-energy-egg.html\u0026amp;source=gmail\u0026amp;ust=1694268929743000\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw1zzkFzMYOv9UInjsJKmd2P\" href=\"https:\/\/phys.org\/news\/2023-09-disconnect-poultry-dietary-energy-egg.html\" style=\"background-color: white; 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All rights reserved\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"blogger-post-footer\"\u003EArticle ©copyright protected by Fresh Eggs Daily Inc. All rights reserved. The original content appeared on www.fresheggsdaily.blog. You may use one photo and a portion of this article with credit.\u003C\/div\u003E"},"link":[{"rel":"edit","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/8196431300319257175"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/8196431300319257175"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/09\/what-should-i-feed-my-chickens.html","title":"What Should I Feed my Chickens?"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"Lisa | Fresh Eggs Daily®"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/16766604467302444189"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi7Ivo8zOqv1Aej8HH2-4TUdhpSAmeSp5wQje1WbdbANsfNTTHZlgdm6l8ZH_fSR5tPwmZ-NvPdieOWe7AUTYKjrQo3tcSSOjUudil_QUjRTVWfKS2ir9sbnl0txwc6gQ\/s113\/pink-square.jpg"}}],"media$thumbnail":{"xmlns$media":"http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/","url":"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjCVp_c0b4DxQZISIcRTopV0P4WCGlLfI_aP1kbLmEl30q20VUqHXzdKBwA3iZfdgbqTlkbY7rRA3UfVY9QMqoXbN1HQUyUYS_93qjEAilgFlSjUMnhQSjKT2eKj-QS3xqXkLUNI8hhttbcnd7tFgth3_ap61fgSfhwJPr009X9Im2BxqWQ46jLT9cpkFs\/s72-w500-h640-c\/what%20should%20i%20feed%20my%20chickens.jpg","height":"72","width":"72"}},{"id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615.post-2082854031838435182"},"published":{"$t":"2023-06-11T16:02:00.001-04:00"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-10-17T15:23:24.354-04:00"},"category":[{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Chickens"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"coop"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"10 Steps to Convert a Horse Stall into a Chicken Coop"},"content":{"type":"html","$t":"\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003EConverting a horse stall into a chicken coop can save you time as well as money.\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEih6kPHtJeRdSIxbEB5-AGn1PWfVJYEQSIPh9sZvkviaFfKsS9657kjced07ac83ZtznX4uQTr4wbxeee8ArPEvMI6jKwRSOd5IITz_2QNRP3_s9gf1EokrZL49KVIn89yk4EUbGAQCfB3agqJOBbFG5d7_Noc6IouvDl2K5ahTIQCqdu7qKQidsZcM\/s963\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%204.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"963\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEih6kPHtJeRdSIxbEB5-AGn1PWfVJYEQSIPh9sZvkviaFfKsS9657kjced07ac83ZtznX4uQTr4wbxeee8ArPEvMI6jKwRSOd5IITz_2QNRP3_s9gf1EokrZL49KVIn89yk4EUbGAQCfB3agqJOBbFG5d7_Noc6IouvDl2K5ahTIQCqdu7qKQidsZcM\/w532-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%204.jpg\" width=\"532\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2020\/03\/the-beginners-guide-to-raising-backyard.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EGetting started with chickens\u003C\/a\u003E can be expensive, especially these days with prices of everything going up across the board. And when you total the cost of the chicks and their feed, plus coop accessories like feeders and waterers, heat lamps, and a brooder, it can add up fast.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd that's not even talking about the coop and run - which will be by far your largest expense.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca name='more'\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBut the good news is that if you have a barn with an empty stall, you can save money by converting an existing horse stall into a safe and secure home for your flock pretty easily. With the hard (and expensive!) part is already done.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EAnd if you don't have a barn with an empty stall, maybe you have a garden shed, garage, playhouse or other structure that you could convert.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgBRtp_zjR6hcpvzFZemIfItBuy0WjT2-H3dbt6y0xjwOCGvWM2lIQlyWkakYmJqY8iA9vPn18lMbfkqzKpI6I-wGKehCNAeyagkhM6SlgdhxKq8XR-PV_lJggOpRkf2kTywaiZtIJBtNvUlO2Ej1SupK1cReJXUybVXgRUPTDcHjj2mO4wNJVCnwRh\/s800\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%206.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"533\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"426\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgBRtp_zjR6hcpvzFZemIfItBuy0WjT2-H3dbt6y0xjwOCGvWM2lIQlyWkakYmJqY8iA9vPn18lMbfkqzKpI6I-wGKehCNAeyagkhM6SlgdhxKq8XR-PV_lJggOpRkf2kTywaiZtIJBtNvUlO2Ej1SupK1cReJXUybVXgRUPTDcHjj2mO4wNJVCnwRh\/w640-h426\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%206.jpg\" width=\"640\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EWhy Convert a Horse Stall into a Chicken Coop?\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo why convert a horse stall into a chicken coop in the first place? Well, there are several reasons why it makes sense, and the cost is just one of them.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4\u003EMoney Saver\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESure, the cost savings that come from not having to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/02\/building-chicken-coop.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ebuild a coop from scratch\u003C\/a\u003E can be pretty impressive. Lumber and other\u0026nbsp; building materials are expensive, as is hiring a builder if you're not handy enough to build a coop yourself.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EEven the pre-made coops and coop kits are expensive to buy. So using an existing structure will save you a ton of money.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ETime Saver\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWe've all done it. Gone to the feed store for something entirely unrelated and returned home with a box full of chicks. A dozen chicks doesn't seem like a big deal until you realize that in a few short weeks, they're going to need a place to live.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EBuilding a coop from scratch is going to take a lot of time. Repurposing a horse stall is going to be far quicker when time is of the essence.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjPJWgy5jhOZi2q-K7MMFx_3mtLtXb6GI7_drpPRzBo2NDD8VcIuWujcBmyxaSRrSlT0x7MBxwEEANK1zoW0_1Fk-IQwQmbTf32d4Emb1sO-u-BAWkCRApK5YdY6JgzyrrjzlUnvbJ_3u0vhhR1Vc2tS4acHuhvaDGMPGDgRMZYLHGZrxeezCCpLvTl\/s987\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%207.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"987\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjPJWgy5jhOZi2q-K7MMFx_3mtLtXb6GI7_drpPRzBo2NDD8VcIuWujcBmyxaSRrSlT0x7MBxwEEANK1zoW0_1Fk-IQwQmbTf32d4Emb1sO-u-BAWkCRApK5YdY6JgzyrrjzlUnvbJ_3u0vhhR1Vc2tS4acHuhvaDGMPGDgRMZYLHGZrxeezCCpLvTl\/w518-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%207.jpg\" width=\"518\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ESafety in Numbers\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to saving time and money, there are other advantages to converting a horse stall into a chicken coop.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EFirst and foremost, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/11\/predator-proofing-101-how-to-keep-your.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ea chicken coop needs to be predator-proof,\u003C\/a\u003E and a stall is already part of a secure structure with solid wooden walls, so you're automatically adding an extra layer of predator protection.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPresumably other animals (larger animals) also live in the barn, such as donkeys, goats, cows or horses, and they’ll all help deter predators as well.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you live in an area where bears can be an issue, having a coop inside your barn will provide excellent protection from them. Bears can easily knock over, or take apart, the smaller, less well-built coops.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj_iajEqEfJPclacuE6QHu3bXGlt2W2fl-M0dXHv6KnFsuSCpWsbFvw7BgrNbz0EVeMcWDv6G4wienDq00FFQTWF0bb-NHNGm6XVTtaPH4iHqRp9RiqbazqqbIbA5fnf-4Kpkhi1faLYmGADzyH8p_ynpEk54HWogSmKu3FpSIamf8CbVnXdf99_cix\/s1104\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%202.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1104\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj_iajEqEfJPclacuE6QHu3bXGlt2W2fl-M0dXHv6KnFsuSCpWsbFvw7BgrNbz0EVeMcWDv6G4wienDq00FFQTWF0bb-NHNGm6XVTtaPH4iHqRp9RiqbazqqbIbA5fnf-4Kpkhi1faLYmGADzyH8p_ynpEk54HWogSmKu3FpSIamf8CbVnXdf99_cix\/w464-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%202.jpg\" width=\"464\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch4 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EProtection from the Elements\u003C\/h4\u003E\u003Cp\u003EA stall is also naturally well-ventilated, but out of direct wind and the elements. If you live in a cold climate, your chickens will stay much warmer in a converted stall, taking advantage of the body heat of other livestock and the shelter of the barn itself.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIf you live in a warm climate, you might already have fans installed in your barn to move the air around and keep the flies down, so the chickens can benefit from that right along with your other livestock.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWith a few minor modifications, your vacant horse stall can be flock-ready in no time. So now that you understand the benefits of converting a horse stall into a chicken coop, let's go over the steps.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ch2 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi0X1ZlBQa9EQSsvRwoeF6K7NF7n0pI5bfKV5pMyzqDlCdtMJ2atLNn6WUgKXICAzOrLrCAZVxYnOET82yhOFwgsKvV4b-HLYMtTjLLZ5V3p0KMEtP3Vyy-ucbuMRYv4E5zWAlOJ-pRlzcqRbeSgn88h3znhy5xqn3ZJIDDRlik6gBZ3EXoKH212mfV\/s963\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%205.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"963\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi0X1ZlBQa9EQSsvRwoeF6K7NF7n0pI5bfKV5pMyzqDlCdtMJ2atLNn6WUgKXICAzOrLrCAZVxYnOET82yhOFwgsKvV4b-HLYMtTjLLZ5V3p0KMEtP3Vyy-ucbuMRYv4E5zWAlOJ-pRlzcqRbeSgn88h3znhy5xqn3ZJIDDRlik6gBZ3EXoKH212mfV\/w532-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%205.jpg\" width=\"532\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E10 Steps to Convert a Horse Stall into a Chicken Coop\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003ENaturally, the specific modifications you need to make to your structure will depend on the size and style of your barn and the actual stall, but here are some things to consider when you're doing your renovation.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ci\u003ENote: An existing lean-to or open-front shed could be converted the same way, except it will need a solid front and door built in addition to the modifications outlined below.\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ci\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEibEcXr216nC1LVvnQ000mfefqjnE_6coa656zUfTLWlBkt0DbnjCsJKk1AK45B9EcACuV3I5RcPXo-0639Jof5ad09tAsmISVs_tsJs64uFvJilOhGZuqTR6gPKKlkmZM7tNfq0QoB9DAj9F_3pwQuYDEljBABfYvRfzDXBdNfL56HmzWI1UGblJaP\/s891\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2012.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"891\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEibEcXr216nC1LVvnQ000mfefqjnE_6coa656zUfTLWlBkt0DbnjCsJKk1AK45B9EcACuV3I5RcPXo-0639Jof5ad09tAsmISVs_tsJs64uFvJilOhGZuqTR6gPKKlkmZM7tNfq0QoB9DAj9F_3pwQuYDEljBABfYvRfzDXBdNfL56HmzWI1UGblJaP\/w574-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2012.jpg\" width=\"574\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E1. Clean Out the Stall\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003EFirst remove all the dirty shavings from the horse stall. Shovel or rake them into the compost pile or otherwise discard them. Then scrub the floor with a white vinegar\/water solution. If you can, think about power washing the floor and walls to get them really clean.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003EThe ammonia fumes in horse manure and urine will irritate chickens' sensitive mucous membranes, so be sure the stall is completely cleaned out and left to air dry before you move your chickens in.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003EIt's important to never clean with bleach. Bleach mixed with the ammonia in horse urine can create toxic fumes. I always \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/11\/natural-chicken-coop-cleaning-1-2-3.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eclean my chicken coop\u003C\/a\u003E with white vinegar which has nearly the same disinfecting properties as bleach - and is far safer.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003EBrush out the cobwebs and dust any flat surfaces to be sure the chickens are moving into a clean dust-free space.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiGtCiwLrmp-2_C03zNvFxhJ2WhAOxZexgQaJxTFGrX0UjMMmatzXmxpskP0ukW1vhaU6vN-iwcRJi5ffHOoI1QtNrz2cStrPgN_zu5HsmZYYZx66Kcdcy1Vad_3BM75Z7Xgv2f2Yf5Py2VDirgdC-I6tyy30DG4Jbwwkp1PC0itWDuz84pnWa8DUsc\/s961\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2013.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"961\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiGtCiwLrmp-2_C03zNvFxhJ2WhAOxZexgQaJxTFGrX0UjMMmatzXmxpskP0ukW1vhaU6vN-iwcRJi5ffHOoI1QtNrz2cStrPgN_zu5HsmZYYZx66Kcdcy1Vad_3BM75Z7Xgv2f2Yf5Py2VDirgdC-I6tyy30DG4Jbwwkp1PC0itWDuz84pnWa8DUsc\/w532-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2013.jpg\" width=\"532\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E2. Install Solid Flooring\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf the stall has a dirt floor that could be easily breached from underneath by digging predators like rats, weasels and the like, then you'll need to create a solid floor first.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ELay down some welded wire 1\" or smaller gauge wire flat on the dirt floor. Then lay wooden pallets on top of the wire.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EOn top of the wire, lay down sheets of plywood and nail them in place. This will prevent your floor from rotting and also prevent predators from gaining access to the coop by digging in from underneath.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EA sheet of inexpensive vinyl flooring nailed on top of the plywood makes for easy cleanup. Check the discount bin at your local home improvement store. They often sell the ends of rolls, or patterns that aren't selling well, at a huge discount.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf the stall has a cement floor, then you're all set. You can move onto the next step.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjsbfvaB-jgAJHzKig0bPShBLKbA0iOxo3qn18hO3DCLpJ4J_yt3g9QsMrIkJQd4fjQah0D9qdQRrflFgXNG8ewnDylZMt0UONX3tz_io8INF4XRjqFw_Bfd7NR8xp2AU9pClTYe9yXQf-oxvrBa0ib82EbL6pJsxJhSNCvzxGYnD5XuunaLWQjfCW5\/s1064\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%209.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1064\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjsbfvaB-jgAJHzKig0bPShBLKbA0iOxo3qn18hO3DCLpJ4J_yt3g9QsMrIkJQd4fjQah0D9qdQRrflFgXNG8ewnDylZMt0UONX3tz_io8INF4XRjqFw_Bfd7NR8xp2AU9pClTYe9yXQf-oxvrBa0ib82EbL6pJsxJhSNCvzxGYnD5XuunaLWQjfCW5\/w482-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%209.jpg\" width=\"482\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E3. Enclose the Sides and Top of the Stall\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003ENext, you’ll need to extend the walls of the stall to the ceiling if they don’t already reach that high, and cover any windows, openings or vents in the back wall with 1\" or 1\/2\" welded wire or hardware cloth.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYou can build solid side walls out of plywood, but for better air flow, use 1\" or 1\/2\" welded wire to cover the open sides. Since barns can get stuffy and hot in the summer, using welded wire on the sides is the best option to be sure your chickens have enough fresh air day and night.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf the solid wood walls of your stalls are high enough that you could easily get around inside, another option is to attach the welded wire horizontally across the top of the walls instead to create a \"ceiling\" on the stall.\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/01\/weasels-and-foxes-and-hawksoh-my.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003EWeasels, raccoons, and foxes\u003C\/a\u003E all can - and will - climb as high as necessary to get your chickens and might even be able to gain access through the barn vents, cracks and crevices even when the barn doors are closed.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ESo don't be lulled into a false sense of security that your chickens will be safe inside the barn. Their \"coop\" needs to be 1000% predator-proof, and that means covering every hole that's larger than 1-inch.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAnd whatever you do, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2016\/09\/choosing-right-fencing-for-your-chicken.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Edon't use chicken wire.\u003C\/a\u003E A weasel or owl or raccoon can rip right through it, so even though it's pretty unlikely one would get into the barn, it's best not to take chances.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhZ5nr_f3xiPBpllZIsKSoe9z8XUdfneYdICcS67yZ-dhqyY2b644CPtOSY9w574rOCabupeaebJnDs-QrVceVGQ_ORNPwQGFGSXtYx93IAQkj3efPMV5Ab6tlVagZrdPHfpfQCnq6NbRg3nXV5CIdUsgErnwmy85ntpxN5JVYO91e1kr4F8B5i8qcB\/s1006\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%203.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1006\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhZ5nr_f3xiPBpllZIsKSoe9z8XUdfneYdICcS67yZ-dhqyY2b644CPtOSY9w574rOCabupeaebJnDs-QrVceVGQ_ORNPwQGFGSXtYx93IAQkj3efPMV5Ab6tlVagZrdPHfpfQCnq6NbRg3nXV5CIdUsgErnwmy85ntpxN5JVYO91e1kr4F8B5i8qcB\/w508-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%203.jpg\" width=\"508\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E4. Secure the Front of the Stall\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EDepending on the style horse stall you have, you might need to add some welded wire to the front and door of the stall as well, or board up the front of the stall above the door. Either way, you'll need to make sure that not only can't your chickens hop over the door and get out, that nothing can get in.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAnd don't forget to check to be sure there's no space under the stall door that a predator could sneak in through. If there is, setting some pavers along the inside all along the length of the door can block that access.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj89drFBB-w4IDQW2dU8uo64sEPELm_jK4fg7BKXIEbDTPaaMNXjoeuPLi0GG2fAQOIRTJ8EOLwRdmF4vwuJRQZFnS-G8PSv9REUJCH9svQnHsc0OA3uIHsThKtkz7-9nzcrOyjXPm0IJr6WDK96sIn1udpmBlcBlRWA-if6Mw6OxeibW00IwRSJPrv\/s927\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2016.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"927\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj89drFBB-w4IDQW2dU8uo64sEPELm_jK4fg7BKXIEbDTPaaMNXjoeuPLi0GG2fAQOIRTJ8EOLwRdmF4vwuJRQZFnS-G8PSv9REUJCH9svQnHsc0OA3uIHsThKtkz7-9nzcrOyjXPm0IJr6WDK96sIn1udpmBlcBlRWA-if6Mw6OxeibW00IwRSJPrv\/w552-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2016.jpg\" width=\"552\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3\u003E5. Replace the Existing Stall Door Latch\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ESpeaking of nothing getting in, remember that \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2022\/10\/how-to-keep-your-chickens-safe-from.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eraccoons can easily undo most types of latches,\u003C\/a\u003E including sliding bolts, so you'll need to install an eye hook with a spring-loaded latch, a deadbolt with a carabiner, a padlock, or other type of predator-proof latch on the existing stall door.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf you’ll be cutting a small pop door for your chickens to exit the stall directly into an attached run (see below), such as along the back wall of the stall, you’ll need to install similar latches on that door, as well.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj-G9Zg8WafFOwP-uwcH4QjuElE47w2VqRLkBUCeWv1-MvtttBkdZ386bNbHO1PNVguCMooTsIYU2pku8O8jC9345MquaZzG0ZhKfvDYOOPbo2sDCEBP7hhNtZKrd-fcbQcCHahijRgfmEtA1ruuuuHZNaKdueP9q6FrpDtYD4gOnetPH01hXCI-Rzu\/s967\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2018.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"967\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEj-G9Zg8WafFOwP-uwcH4QjuElE47w2VqRLkBUCeWv1-MvtttBkdZ386bNbHO1PNVguCMooTsIYU2pku8O8jC9345MquaZzG0ZhKfvDYOOPbo2sDCEBP7hhNtZKrd-fcbQcCHahijRgfmEtA1ruuuuHZNaKdueP9q6FrpDtYD4gOnetPH01hXCI-Rzu\/w530-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2018.jpg\" width=\"530\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E6. Add Roosting Bars\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ENow for the interior modifications. You will need to build \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/11\/all-about-roosting-bars-in-your-chicken.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eroosts for your chickens to sleep on\u003C\/a\u003E. The easiest way to do this is by using 2x4 boards.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EWith the 4-inch side of each board facing up, construct a wide slanted ladder with the \"steps\" far enough apart that your chickens can roost one row above the other without pooping on each other. About 15\" apart should do it.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYou should allow for 8 inches of roosting bar for each chicken. And while we're talking about space, you can figure on needing about 3-4 square feet of floor space for each chicken.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWpNcEZ5xgxwx9Jx6wFdjGiAoviYEB0ew280jWGT1GC7utgeVpuwEcRJ1B-4LzN8qMhHpAunYG01imOpnlyjfZAN33KV-DHrI2ZJQF9DTQZYvVllRveSCU5QDBQsnKLC4ZBMxVv028t6AchjjT_KuNlXbMx_So9xQ8MXyu1x4vF5HbZ0esbqXxQV-U\/s1046\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2010.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1046\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWpNcEZ5xgxwx9Jx6wFdjGiAoviYEB0ew280jWGT1GC7utgeVpuwEcRJ1B-4LzN8qMhHpAunYG01imOpnlyjfZAN33KV-DHrI2ZJQF9DTQZYvVllRveSCU5QDBQsnKLC4ZBMxVv028t6AchjjT_KuNlXbMx_So9xQ8MXyu1x4vF5HbZ0esbqXxQV-U\/w490-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2010.jpg\" width=\"490\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ESo in a typical 12 foot x 12 foot stall, you theoretically can fit 36-48 chickens comfortably as long as they will be free ranging or have a nice large run to play in during the day.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EFor a low-budget option, you can just install wide branches in the corners of the stall for the chickens to roost on. Just be sure the branches are about 4\" in diameter. Chickens prefer to roost nearly flat-footed, not with their toes wrapped around a thin branch like a wild bird might.\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEg2Gl-1XHUdIVEer7hHUcVBllM7nPvQEyKwOuK_39ktUrveHlKbDqDF6UQqdY3lHWQ6Mx2inczWuAdy-yiNCPkFzAyqQYdinRMS1Fh0AKn6ZC4y3TDLQ0branTAIT1BY7gHtpSNJhap0mxG_lUHROxgKE4ez59aSrR3i3o29Ziuma55O_FtKzGxqSA7\/s1040\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2015.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1040\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEg2Gl-1XHUdIVEer7hHUcVBllM7nPvQEyKwOuK_39ktUrveHlKbDqDF6UQqdY3lHWQ6Mx2inczWuAdy-yiNCPkFzAyqQYdinRMS1Fh0AKn6ZC4y3TDLQ0branTAIT1BY7gHtpSNJhap0mxG_lUHROxgKE4ez59aSrR3i3o29Ziuma55O_FtKzGxqSA7\/w492-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2015.jpg\" width=\"492\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E7. Add Nesting Boxes\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYou will also need to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/11\/all-about-chicken-coop-nesting-boxes.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eprovide your chickens a place to lay eggs.\u003C\/a\u003E Figure on needing one nesting box for each three or four hens. The boxes should be approximately 12 square inches high by 12 inches wide x 12 inches deep.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EYou can build simple boxes out of plywood and secure them the wall in a row, at floor level or slightly higher (just be sure your roosting bars are higher than the boxes or the chickens will want to sleep in the boxes and that leads to dirty eggs).\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EEven easier, you can also repurpose similar-sized containers such as 5-gallon plastic pails, kitty litter tubs, milk crates, storage totes or wooden boxes, set on their sides on the floor. They don't need to be fancy, they just need to provide your hens a safe, private place to lay their eggs.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAdd some nice soft bedding to the boxes, like these \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3PckAh3\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Easpen nesting pads\u003C\/a\u003E, straw or pine shavings, and then place some fake eggs or golf balls in the boxes to encourage and teach your chickens to lay their eggs in the boxes.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgSXJG45zbR84D7Qvpn7CbmxnV7_jCzDKv0CsC5Dwrh72Bf-Wz91oFvthVty-h7mH9RpIV7ivI0zosP6JeJCLbVPmEuUYgma2FhCwDixzlhoxnBVy5KDQ-crzlxj7rv07zJMdmuj5h5ppZ7GRwjnaXvWxB0Nx_ieyiGzp8pkPjvpZ-ZYpH3tPWs1lfK\/s980\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%208.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"980\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgSXJG45zbR84D7Qvpn7CbmxnV7_jCzDKv0CsC5Dwrh72Bf-Wz91oFvthVty-h7mH9RpIV7ivI0zosP6JeJCLbVPmEuUYgma2FhCwDixzlhoxnBVy5KDQ-crzlxj7rv07zJMdmuj5h5ppZ7GRwjnaXvWxB0Nx_ieyiGzp8pkPjvpZ-ZYpH3tPWs1lfK\/w522-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%208.jpg\" width=\"522\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E8. Add Floor Bedding\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EAdd a nice layer of \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/45D632a\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehemp bedding,\u003C\/a\u003E pine shavings or straw to the floor of your coop so the chickens have a nice soft floor to walk on.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E9. Add Waterers, Feeders and Grit\/Shell Dispensers (Optional)\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf you’ll be feeding and watering your chickens inside the coop, either mount the feeder to the wall or hang it from the ceiling. Set up a waterer.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003ESince chickens need both supplemental calcium (either crushed oyster shell or \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/02\/crushing-eggshells.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ecrushed eggshell\u003C\/a\u003E) and \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2016\/12\/besides-feed-what-else-does-chicken-need.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Egrit to help them digest\u003C\/a\u003E their food, \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2015\/06\/diy-repurposed-vintage-match-box-grit.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Einstalling small dispensers\u003C\/a\u003E of each to the wall of the coop is also a good idea.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEixV3qezUMX5HtfENI5PCyJTuIGW9-pyvHE4LV1ml53xg_MwVQgqbK1Wi6yf9EXmcGBwcreaqmRiTZXxJPlPIp9PStSQLATI_Hz2DGs48l9ceHRtabk-0PP0cwL-qoU9YXRLmROSYZTULT6LZSqJ8im9_rEAwAwYpBzvHZGQXkJIEkbmBed7NVDwXzH\/s971\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2011.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"971\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEixV3qezUMX5HtfENI5PCyJTuIGW9-pyvHE4LV1ml53xg_MwVQgqbK1Wi6yf9EXmcGBwcreaqmRiTZXxJPlPIp9PStSQLATI_Hz2DGs48l9ceHRtabk-0PP0cwL-qoU9YXRLmROSYZTULT6LZSqJ8im9_rEAwAwYpBzvHZGQXkJIEkbmBed7NVDwXzH\/w528-h640\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%2011.jpg\" width=\"528\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch3 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E10. Add a Small Exit Door (Optional)\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EIf you plan on free ranging your flock, then you can just let your chickens in and out of their new coop using the large hinged door that the horses would have used.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EOr if you want to keep your chickens penned up (or have the option to do both free ranging and using a pen when you're not home, for example), cut a small opening in the back wall of the stall, build an enclosed run (or pen) out back, and let your chickens go in and out through the small door.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003EJust be sure to install a locking door, as described above, to seal up the opening that can be secured at dusk to keep your flock safe.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgL40qVuINJ60hkXM5m1wFETm1z3RveEVGcd9xw7UW5ls4VxMB7hFcZZTkG5z8oJ7_5KOJEcDCbPLXnR1x7VMC1N6qf_N5eYKak1WxC2p2bdYj5FoksRlPIwdSSX3Kka-2IGfhqWx_ZnFym5BhanR0ifyvDzpF-WahIvnKtsEYQQvbuN3vd_5XWsR7_\/s800\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%201.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"600\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgL40qVuINJ60hkXM5m1wFETm1z3RveEVGcd9xw7UW5ls4VxMB7hFcZZTkG5z8oJ7_5KOJEcDCbPLXnR1x7VMC1N6qf_N5eYKak1WxC2p2bdYj5FoksRlPIwdSSX3Kka-2IGfhqWx_ZnFym5BhanR0ifyvDzpF-WahIvnKtsEYQQvbuN3vd_5XWsR7_\/w640-h480\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%201.jpg\" width=\"640\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EAnd now your horse-stall-turned-chicken-coop is open for business! And in case you're wondering... chickens and horses can happily co-exist and in fact get along remarkably well.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr style=\"text-align: left;\" \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003EPin This!\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi_TMeNLlVP6w-r7UuhlS-3uzYudL837daVuOrnjJsX2CAxL1ecbts1spc8QEVkPw-PwUlti0iAl4khLCjiOnRkaB2O0AKsh785smHCOkLze_h2ThjnAiC05uUiiflFpFVFQkVZ00GXlkExsMAbRAH0hoQX_NwHHTfq2axJn0xjnNTCbn5k2ly1MXvI\/s1064\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%20pin.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1064\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi_TMeNLlVP6w-r7UuhlS-3uzYudL837daVuOrnjJsX2CAxL1ecbts1spc8QEVkPw-PwUlti0iAl4khLCjiOnRkaB2O0AKsh785smHCOkLze_h2ThjnAiC05uUiiflFpFVFQkVZ00GXlkExsMAbRAH0hoQX_NwHHTfq2axJn0xjnNTCbn5k2ly1MXvI\/w301-h400\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%20pin.jpg\" width=\"301\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\n\u003Ca aria-label=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" border=\"0\" class=\"nopin\" height=\"63\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/2.bp.blogspot.com\/-LzfL-AsLdTU\/WfPZKYaPmDI\/AAAAAAACUCk\/QkpCGTFRM2g0jLYH3119L0LxXrDprZdRwCLcBGAs\/s1600\/chicken-signature-2.png\" width=\"134\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FreshEggsDaily?fref=ts\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EFacebook\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ETwitter\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EInstagram\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EYouTube\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/view.flodesk.com\/pages\/6186a5660b51fd1569c5570b\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ESubscribe\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E©2023 by Fresh Eggs Daily, Inc. All rights reserved\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"blogger-post-footer\"\u003EArticle ©copyright protected by Fresh Eggs Daily Inc. All rights reserved. The original content appeared on www.fresheggsdaily.blog. You may use one photo and a portion of this article with credit.\u003C\/div\u003E"},"link":[{"rel":"edit","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/2082854031838435182"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/2082854031838435182"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/06\/10-steps-to-convert-horse-stall-into.html","title":"10 Steps to Convert a Horse Stall into a Chicken Coop"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"Lisa | Fresh Eggs Daily®"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/16766604467302444189"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi7Ivo8zOqv1Aej8HH2-4TUdhpSAmeSp5wQje1WbdbANsfNTTHZlgdm6l8ZH_fSR5tPwmZ-NvPdieOWe7AUTYKjrQo3tcSSOjUudil_QUjRTVWfKS2ir9sbnl0txwc6gQ\/s113\/pink-square.jpg"}}],"media$thumbnail":{"xmlns$media":"http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/","url":"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEih6kPHtJeRdSIxbEB5-AGn1PWfVJYEQSIPh9sZvkviaFfKsS9657kjced07ac83ZtznX4uQTr4wbxeee8ArPEvMI6jKwRSOd5IITz_2QNRP3_s9gf1EokrZL49KVIn89yk4EUbGAQCfB3agqJOBbFG5d7_Noc6IouvDl2K5ahTIQCqdu7qKQidsZcM\/s72-w532-h640-c\/converting%20a%20horse%20stall%20to%20a%20chicken%20coop%204.jpg","height":"72","width":"72"}},{"id":{"$t":"tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1055489536939219615.post-9200089295798631329"},"published":{"$t":"2023-06-07T13:43:00.002-04:00"},"updated":{"$t":"2023-08-22T10:58:39.071-04:00"},"category":[{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Chickens"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"Summer"},{"scheme":"http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#","term":"treats"}],"title":{"type":"text","$t":"Watermelon Slushies for Chickens"},"content":{"type":"html","$t":"\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003EWatermelon slushies provide chickens essential hydration as well as beneficial nutrients on a hot day.\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiz-bvcLxXquMc8mN6e9vqzfkxkVszQZqGWYAN2cwrvMitjMyKL-p3_pxTJloccrmIB5sCJsgmgz-Twg3GLW4AZOqhBk8-D_j4ubRmmYi7z0Psjfeqb-gibJqUZFy2A5HG2qpYdK09PyjtSHzvnG0KFMAp5BvOuitVsw6H8VfP1naLJkR1lYkE16THQ\/s700\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20%20chickens%201.png\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"420\" data-original-width=\"700\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiz-bvcLxXquMc8mN6e9vqzfkxkVszQZqGWYAN2cwrvMitjMyKL-p3_pxTJloccrmIB5sCJsgmgz-Twg3GLW4AZOqhBk8-D_j4ubRmmYi7z0Psjfeqb-gibJqUZFy2A5HG2qpYdK09PyjtSHzvnG0KFMAp5BvOuitVsw6H8VfP1naLJkR1lYkE16THQ\/w640-h384\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20%20chickens%201.png\" width=\"640\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EChickens not only \u003Ci\u003E\u003Cb\u003Ecan\u003C\/b\u003E \u003C\/i\u003Eeat watermelon, they should, and they love it!\u0026nbsp; And it’s \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/06\/the-five-best-summertime-treats-for.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eone of the best summer treats for your chickens\u003C\/a\u003E because its high water content helps keep them hydrated.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ca name='more'\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to being full of moisture, watermelon contains Vitamins A, B6 and C, magnesium and potassium. It's also a great source of carotenoids which make \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2020\/01\/what-makes-egg-yolks-orange.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enice orange egg yolks\u003C\/a\u003E as well as cucurbitacin, which is thought to be a \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/04\/pumpkin-soup-nasturtiums-natural.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Enatural wormer for poultry.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatermelon also has the highest levels of the antioxidant lycopene compared to any other food.\u0026nbsp; Lycopene helps to decrease the risk of cancer and heart disease.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgsy8iPNHh-ULkAwQl1ocXVFcj4c7RyXCwMdZkMdUqllpyzMQ2gufipNOk8ZN-JfxqpHMLhZJy7v9pqtFq9IQDG1PXQ-Z-O2fCPeIfGSqm4Ps8KAMWH0f_N1opOiS5eY024e5Mad8rhwGxBOpkwFTTeiinaU0n4TNp8uR1iWRGxvvgK0uPLQ-kQeLL6\/s1050\/watermelon%20plant.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1050\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEgsy8iPNHh-ULkAwQl1ocXVFcj4c7RyXCwMdZkMdUqllpyzMQ2gufipNOk8ZN-JfxqpHMLhZJy7v9pqtFq9IQDG1PXQ-Z-O2fCPeIfGSqm4Ps8KAMWH0f_N1opOiS5eY024e5Mad8rhwGxBOpkwFTTeiinaU0n4TNp8uR1iWRGxvvgK0uPLQ-kQeLL6\/w488-h640\/watermelon%20plant.jpg\" width=\"488\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatermelon is one of my chickens’ (and ducks!) favorite treats. The entire plant is edible for chickens. They’ll eat the flesh, seeds and even the rind.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOf course you can feed watermelon to your chickens just by cutting it in half and letting them nibble at it. You definitely won't hear any complaints from them!\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhE3_iZ98fQ-tPjE89Q6rtqteWP40RVI6va7U5QbHy1QVVn6PKGJyFhOsAD8cUCcgPGaGGQTKRF_SvQPD0v9PaUNG-LJPGE3cx_SjWMrnZP3kuRmDdKxw0kBBzbnZVXWABUV8yzZZPhNl6CHk2DQuDChNr3ZEbk5K14euRyDFJwuLwKDn9MfzEiyBY4\/s1114\/chickens-eating-watermelon-1.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1114\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhE3_iZ98fQ-tPjE89Q6rtqteWP40RVI6va7U5QbHy1QVVn6PKGJyFhOsAD8cUCcgPGaGGQTKRF_SvQPD0v9PaUNG-LJPGE3cx_SjWMrnZP3kuRmDdKxw0kBBzbnZVXWABUV8yzZZPhNl6CHk2DQuDChNr3ZEbk5K14euRyDFJwuLwKDn9MfzEiyBY4\/w460-h640\/chickens-eating-watermelon-1.jpg\" width=\"460\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EOr, if you have been following me for any length of time, you know that you can get fancy. Watermelon Slushies are one of my favorite hydrating warm weather treats for my flock.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIt’s really important to do what you can to \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2012\/03\/beating-heat.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ekeep your flock cool in the summer.\u003C\/a\u003E Chickens don’t have the ability to sweat like humans and other mammals do. Instead, they expel their body heat through their comb and pant to stay cool.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThey don’t handle heat well at all, and once the temperatures start to climb above 65 degrees, they start wishing it were cooler. And once temperatures hit 85 degrees F or so, they really start to feel the effects.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn the warm months, there are several things you can do to help alleviate heat stress:\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProvide lots of shady areas\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EMinimize their stress (i.e. no kids or other pets chasing them)\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBe sure they have a \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2018\/10\/chicken-coops-101-drafts-vs-ventilation.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ewell-ventilated coop\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EProvide cool, fresh water\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOffer \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/05\/how-to-make-homemade-electrolytes-for.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eelectrolytes\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cul style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cli\u003EOffer water-laden foods like cucumbers and watermelon\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjC7RD3GscsrzO5dtwRzuCh284xJfKF29avYDMMPAguLxGiiQA0WSQVYDYmGHCmN3AX57SAm2Izu_8EwOjMKMisbyMv-_X0YutkhEecD0Xs0FkhVyeOMS_jyPwbjvmRWY2JHx28anfN1bEExl5IzNecpaRdCyubuVXN-BUc7m80GcHw66omELFY-hr3\/s1068\/chickens%20eating%20watermelon.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1068\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjC7RD3GscsrzO5dtwRzuCh284xJfKF29avYDMMPAguLxGiiQA0WSQVYDYmGHCmN3AX57SAm2Izu_8EwOjMKMisbyMv-_X0YutkhEecD0Xs0FkhVyeOMS_jyPwbjvmRWY2JHx28anfN1bEExl5IzNecpaRdCyubuVXN-BUc7m80GcHw66omELFY-hr3\/w480-h640\/chickens%20eating%20watermelon.jpg\" width=\"480\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp\u003EIn addition to providing shade and ice water,\u0026nbsp; etc. I like to take it one step further and make Watermelon Slushies for my chickens in the summer.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EWatermelon is a food with an extremely high water content - around 92%. And then also adding some fresh herbs adds some great nutritional benefits as well, since all the \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2014\/02\/common-herbs-and-their-health-benefits.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Eculinary herbs are packed with nutrients.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003ESo watermelon slushies provide not only essential fluids on a hot day, but also other nutrients which are beneficial since chickens tend not to eat as much when it's hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEit5uxKcsKdYcxwuv3y4jN2OszY3BJXz_b29Q4HBD88ycsDLXBM9lf35LVBRXCfvXiUuEGA0o3xwXFrrAqD0OvqOjrLKYLnc1Fob7M4xa16Ix5TukxDOL2FAMFyliZ5x0VeeINddV50NlL4Hh3yUI9Jr2psPx9n-SvzKi27qFQhaGmUOY6LaPBNz1pJ\/s1493\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%207.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1493\" data-original-width=\"1001\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEit5uxKcsKdYcxwuv3y4jN2OszY3BJXz_b29Q4HBD88ycsDLXBM9lf35LVBRXCfvXiUuEGA0o3xwXFrrAqD0OvqOjrLKYLnc1Fob7M4xa16Ix5TukxDOL2FAMFyliZ5x0VeeINddV50NlL4Hh3yUI9Jr2psPx9n-SvzKi27qFQhaGmUOY6LaPBNz1pJ\/w430-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%207.jpg\" width=\"430\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ch2\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EWatermelon Slushies for Chickens\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cb\u003EWhat you Need |\u003C\/b\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EOne watermelon of any size halved and insides scooped out\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHandful of ice cubes\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EHandful of fresh mint, basil, parsley or other herb, plus more for garnish\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cb\u003EWhat you Do |\u003C\/b\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cp\u003EPurée the watermelon flesh, seeds, ice and herbs until smooth. Pour the soup evenly into each watermelon half (or in a dish or bowl).\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EGarnish with additional herb leaves, if desired.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003EServe the watermelon slushie immediately in a shady spot.\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ci\u003EOptional: Add some fresh berries, or even some electrolytes like Pedialyte or your own \u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2017\/05\/how-to-make-homemade-electrolytes-for.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003Ehomemade electrolytes.\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;Don't have any watermelon? You can make Cantaloupe or Honeydew Slushies instead!\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjpTJW8J1vsQU8Vv35ZRo_vH85efZk0foNgrlxiO0pbERP8oBk8Rk1ZjfCIqs1Z3bXDpPwc0o-iXxrmEgJseVYgR2pQ426yvtH5BYNRNYSEwocn24POVMVhICLnxRA2LIu44dhI1_YRJ3HmAPvbnN8qSi7vY2Oxf1wtJmCHq-PTYiYHZ-mpzxz8YwK5\/s1440\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%204.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1440\" data-original-width=\"929\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjpTJW8J1vsQU8Vv35ZRo_vH85efZk0foNgrlxiO0pbERP8oBk8Rk1ZjfCIqs1Z3bXDpPwc0o-iXxrmEgJseVYgR2pQ426yvtH5BYNRNYSEwocn24POVMVhICLnxRA2LIu44dhI1_YRJ3HmAPvbnN8qSi7vY2Oxf1wtJmCHq-PTYiYHZ-mpzxz8YwK5\/w412-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%204.jpg\" width=\"412\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhHFqRVrQ5WtwFF0yvmTazG-iNMK318AXjahJYxuZoMU_89Cg3KG46L0oQMqbsKSjDNRQNW8vycZxToRiOzQwQpPI1epRHA1sTYFqnXkMjg9wwFG6pCbjLY5iounyRBMm92upvhh_HP58X3WMzvx9okKpXaUa8M3mQcBTCok39OESwg26gGmsHGmejq\/s1136\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%203.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1136\" data-original-width=\"769\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhHFqRVrQ5WtwFF0yvmTazG-iNMK318AXjahJYxuZoMU_89Cg3KG46L0oQMqbsKSjDNRQNW8vycZxToRiOzQwQpPI1epRHA1sTYFqnXkMjg9wwFG6pCbjLY5iounyRBMm92upvhh_HP58X3WMzvx9okKpXaUa8M3mQcBTCok39OESwg26gGmsHGmejq\/w434-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%203.jpg\" width=\"434\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWJbIEs-5HOmK1sMqmy-h_nofpZKEVORJ38bOIu9e6BfGGfoGurGNpdZD0jZBYFO0C5GTrOsK92V0y3sSxc8ZdvSWdp-mZv8EqCK91ZmonMYB6t73cDIWeuDxhHdZa87blC7r2Mewah1t7Tt-eX-naXWehseuDZGerhHH_Dagvj93zkL1Gg70Chkgb\/s1147\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%202.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1147\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEhWJbIEs-5HOmK1sMqmy-h_nofpZKEVORJ38bOIu9e6BfGGfoGurGNpdZD0jZBYFO0C5GTrOsK92V0y3sSxc8ZdvSWdp-mZv8EqCK91ZmonMYB6t73cDIWeuDxhHdZa87blC7r2Mewah1t7Tt-eX-naXWehseuDZGerhHH_Dagvj93zkL1Gg70Chkgb\/w446-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%202.jpg\" width=\"446\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EOnce your chickens have eaten all the slushie, you can continue to refill the watermelon halves with fresh cool water for them to enjoy.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003ERemember, keeping your chickens cool in the summer is extremely critical. Chicks and chickens of all ages will enjoy nibbling on fresh watermelon or slurping a Watermelon Slushie.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjAHAEUoL8PiP4vLAcJNYMMMJIVxeffjTMqto_8dKNZCjtGu4TxojVMPesQwg3Epb9SjzBN09XayLeZu94c02DXgeWqRzO7hQ4MrBxiAevaE9Y3ou6mSi4MkmHaG-5H6hUzuBDua_LL5v1XH6GTan9ucF_u5p4ySnhge1xlcYSHfpxaMOAWIr7TnP_b\/s1075\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%206.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1075\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEjAHAEUoL8PiP4vLAcJNYMMMJIVxeffjTMqto_8dKNZCjtGu4TxojVMPesQwg3Epb9SjzBN09XayLeZu94c02DXgeWqRzO7hQ4MrBxiAevaE9Y3ou6mSi4MkmHaG-5H6hUzuBDua_LL5v1XH6GTan9ucF_u5p4ySnhge1xlcYSHfpxaMOAWIr7TnP_b\/w476-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%206.jpg\" width=\"476\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEged92x4nkHJQ42SetSJWN9fia6yloMwvBOqwJOhInSmKreXfMKWLzOlSN6RSFTZjjXKQlvO2ufXST9z7ewsI8y3h7z6E3bVWAaKvcKaG0Ip-B5HZ28Vca3kykyyeHF2Bpo2wRgLm2PaVUCXUA96DvsvmC5mEc1RClHFA89IaJTxjViaDdOICRnUA5X\/s1290\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%205.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1290\" data-original-width=\"951\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEged92x4nkHJQ42SetSJWN9fia6yloMwvBOqwJOhInSmKreXfMKWLzOlSN6RSFTZjjXKQlvO2ufXST9z7ewsI8y3h7z6E3bVWAaKvcKaG0Ip-B5HZ28Vca3kykyyeHF2Bpo2wRgLm2PaVUCXUA96DvsvmC5mEc1RClHFA89IaJTxjViaDdOICRnUA5X\/w472-h640\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%205.jpg\" width=\"472\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003EEven if you don’t make your flock any Watermelon Slushies, they will enjoy plain watermelon slices on a hot day. I try to give my chickens as much watermelon as I can during a heat wave.\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ci\u003EPin This!\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/i\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"separator\" style=\"clear: both; text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiQX9bvWEMyA1ljX6vZr6PEKdwCY_SIgmOpJXlAYDn851sROgPkCYPvF6YiVSNGNHwG0xL6AfkDKbaUS3SnWuZEe4CR-GvRJ_wH8WMPvfwPfK2MzUdt1CI__fpZxHGqwMBQxvsZaO8ekojLdwnJ5gRkgSwNp-pRWbRuTpcFWMCFLcO7VOJaRDMsvlVV\/s1147\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" style=\"margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;\"\u003E\u003Cimg border=\"0\" data-original-height=\"1147\" data-original-width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiQX9bvWEMyA1ljX6vZr6PEKdwCY_SIgmOpJXlAYDn851sROgPkCYPvF6YiVSNGNHwG0xL6AfkDKbaUS3SnWuZEe4CR-GvRJ_wH8WMPvfwPfK2MzUdt1CI__fpZxHGqwMBQxvsZaO8ekojLdwnJ5gRkgSwNp-pRWbRuTpcFWMCFLcO7VOJaRDMsvlVV\/w279-h400\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20chickens%20pin.jpg\" width=\"279\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Ccenter style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\n\u003Ca aria-label=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"@fresheggsdaily at Instagram\" border=\"0\" class=\"nopin\" height=\"63\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/2.bp.blogspot.com\/-LzfL-AsLdTU\/WfPZKYaPmDI\/AAAAAAACUCk\/QkpCGTFRM2g0jLYH3119L0LxXrDprZdRwCLcBGAs\/s1600\/chicken-signature-2.png\" width=\"134\" \/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FreshEggsDaily?fref=ts\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EFacebook\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ETwitter\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/instagram.com\/fresheggsdaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EInstagram\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan face=\"\u0026quot;verdana\u0026quot; , sans-serif\" style=\"line-height: 21.56px;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/FreshEggsDaily\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003EYouTube\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;|\u0026nbsp;\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;\"\u003E\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/view.flodesk.com\/pages\/6186a5660b51fd1569c5570b\" style=\"color: #783f04; text-decoration: none;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"color: #783f04;\"\u003ESubscribe\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Ccenter\u003E\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n\u003Cspan style=\"font-size: xx-small;\"\u003E©2023 by Fresh Eggs Daily, Inc. All rights reserved\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003C\/center\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"blogger-post-footer\"\u003EArticle ©copyright protected by Fresh Eggs Daily Inc. All rights reserved. The original content appeared on www.fresheggsdaily.blog. You may use one photo and a portion of this article with credit.\u003C\/div\u003E"},"link":[{"rel":"edit","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/9200089295798631329"},{"rel":"self","type":"application/atom+xml","href":"https:\/\/www.blogger.com\/feeds\/1055489536939219615\/posts\/default\/9200089295798631329"},{"rel":"alternate","type":"text/html","href":"https:\/\/www.fresheggsdaily.blog\/2023\/06\/watermelon-slushies-for-chickens.html","title":"Watermelon Slushies for Chickens"}],"author":[{"name":{"$t":"Lisa | Fresh Eggs Daily®"},"uri":{"$t":"http:\/\/www.blogger.com\/profile\/16766604467302444189"},"email":{"$t":"noreply@blogger.com"},"gd$image":{"rel":"http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail","width":"32","height":"32","src":"\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEi7Ivo8zOqv1Aej8HH2-4TUdhpSAmeSp5wQje1WbdbANsfNTTHZlgdm6l8ZH_fSR5tPwmZ-NvPdieOWe7AUTYKjrQo3tcSSOjUudil_QUjRTVWfKS2ir9sbnl0txwc6gQ\/s113\/pink-square.jpg"}}],"media$thumbnail":{"xmlns$media":"http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/","url":"https:\/\/blogger.googleusercontent.com\/img\/b\/R29vZ2xl\/AVvXsEiz-bvcLxXquMc8mN6e9vqzfkxkVszQZqGWYAN2cwrvMitjMyKL-p3_pxTJloccrmIB5sCJsgmgz-Twg3GLW4AZOqhBk8-D_j4ubRmmYi7z0Psjfeqb-gibJqUZFy2A5HG2qpYdK09PyjtSHzvnG0KFMAp5BvOuitVsw6H8VfP1naLJkR1lYkE16THQ\/s72-w640-h384-c\/watermelon%20slushie%20for%20%20chickens%201.png","height":"72","width":"72"},"georss$featurename":{"$t":"4P8QCFQQ+84"},"georss$point":{"$t":"-43.561739400000008 115.48775"},"georss$box":{"$t":"-90 45.175250000000005 4.9965593364233314 -174.19975"}}]}});