Complete Gardening
Fall is a delightful time not only for us but also for our backyard chickens.
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect opportunity to treat your feathered friends to some seasonal snacks that are both nutritious and delicious.
Here’s a list of 25 tasty fall snacks that will keep your chickens clucking with joy all season long.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a fantastic fall treat for chickens. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals, plus they help with parasite control.
Simply clean and dry the seeds before offering them as a snack.
2. Apple Slices
Apples are a favorite among chickens, and fall is the perfect time to share them.
Slice them up to make them easier to peck at, and watch your flock enjoy the sweet, juicy flavor.
3. Butternut Squash
Chickens love butternut squash, which is abundant in fall.
It’s full of nutrients and can be served raw or cooked.
Just cut it into manageable pieces and let your chickens dive in.
4. Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a tasty treat that chickens adore. Offer them the kernels or whole cobs.
It’s a great way to provide them with natural carbohydrates and energy.
5. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are a perfect snack that chickens enjoy year-round, but they’re especially nice in the fall.
They’re high in protein and make for a satisfying snack.
6. Cranberries
Cranberries are not only festive but also healthy for chickens.
They can be fed fresh or dried, adding a tangy twist to your chickens’ diet.
7. Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is another autumn staple that chickens can relish.
It’s full of fiber and vitamins, and you can serve it raw or cooked, seeds included!
8. Carrot Peels
Don’t toss those carrot peels! Chickens love them, and they’re packed with beta-carotene.
Just make sure they’re fresh and clean before feeding them to your flock.
9. Beet Greens
Beet greens are an overlooked but nutritious snack for chickens.
They’re rich in vitamins and can be fed raw. Just chop them into smaller pieces for easier consumption.
10. Grapes
Grapes are a sweet treat that chickens love to peck at. Serve them whole or cut in half to avoid choking hazards.
They provide a burst of natural sugars and hydration.
11. Cucumber Ends
Cucumber ends are a hydrating snack that can refresh your chickens. They’re especially appreciated during the warmer fall days. Just slice and serve.
12. Peas in Pods
Peas in their pods are a playful snack for chickens.
They can enjoy picking at the pods to get to the peas, offering both entertainment and nutrition.
13. Spinach Leaves
Spinach is a leafy green that chickens can benefit from.
It’s full of iron and vitamins, and can be offered raw. Just wash and chop it before feeding.
14. Broccoli Stems
Broccoli stems should not go to waste when they can be a crunchy snack for chickens.
They’re full of fiber and nutrients. Chop them into manageable sizes.
15. Zucchini Slices
Zucchini is a versatile snack that chickens can enjoy.
Slice it up and watch them peck away at the moist, tender flesh, which is full of hydration and nutrients.
16. Pear Halves
Pears are a juicy and sweet fall treat for chickens.
Cut them in half to make them easier to eat, and enjoy the sight of your chickens savoring this delightful snack.
17. Squash Seeds
Just like pumpkin seeds, squash seeds are a nutritious snack for chickens.
They’re easy to prepare and packed with healthy fats and proteins.
18. Brussels Sprout Leaves
Brussels sprout leaves are often discarded but can be a nutritious snack for chickens.
They’re loaded with vitamins, and you can feed them raw for added crunch.
19. Kale Chips
Kale chips are a crispy treat that chickens will love.
They’re full of vitamins and can be a healthy snack when baked at low temperatures with minimal seasoning.
20. Radish Tops
Radish tops should not be overlooked as a snack for chickens.
They’re full of nutrients and can be fed raw. Just ensure they’re clean and free from pesticides.
21. Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are a nutrient-rich snack that chickens enjoy.
They can be offered raw or cooked, and will provide plenty of essential vitamins and minerals.
22. Winter Squash
Winter squash is a hearty snack for chickens.
It’s perfect for a fall diet, offering energy and nutrients. Serve it cooked or raw, with seeds included.
23. Berries
Berries are a delightful treat that chickens cannot resist. Offer them fresh or dried, as they’re full of antioxidants and natural sugars to energize your flock.
24. Nuts (Cracked)
Cracked nuts such as walnuts or almonds can be a high-energy snack for chickens.
They’re rich in healthy fats but should be given in moderation.
25. Oatmeal
Warm oatmeal is a cozy fall snack for chickens, especially on chilly mornings.
It’s filling and can be mixed with fruits or seeds for added texture.