Feeding Wild Game Scraps to Chickens Whats Safe and Whats Not?

[NestNurturer]

Im eagerly awaiting my first chicks to hatch and planning ahead for their diet as they grow. Since I hunt and fish regularly, Ill have plenty of scrapsdeer trimmings, fish carcasses, and small game. Chickens eat almost anything, but I want to make sure Im not feeding them something harmful.

I plan to offer a proper flock feed as their main diet, with oyster shell once the hens start laying. Theyll also free-range for several hours daily, but Id like to supplement with extra protein from my game harvests. Im particularly curious about raw meat, bones, and organs.

Are there specific risks to feeding raw game scraps? Should meat be frozen or cooked first to kill parasites? Are there any parts (such as fish with tapeworms or certain organs) that should always be avoided? Also, how much protein is too much for chickens, and what are the signs of excess?

[PoultryPassion]

Im eagerly awaiting my first chicks to hatch and planning ahead for their diet as they grow. Since I hunt and fish regularly, Ill have plenty of scrapsdeer trimmings, fish carcasses, and small game. Chickens eat almost anything, but I want to make sure Im not feeding them something harmful.

I plan to offer a proper flock feed as their main diet, with oyster shell once the hens start laying. Theyll also free-range for several hours daily, but Id like to supplement with extra protein from my game harvests. Im particularly curious about raw meat, bones, and organs.

Are there specific risks to feeding raw game scraps? Should meat be frozen or cooked first to kill parasites? Are there any parts (such as fish with tapeworms or certain organs) that should always be avoided? Also, how much protein is too much for chickens, and what are the signs of excess?

Wild game is a great protein source, but be cautious with organ meats. Liver and heart are okay in moderation, but avoid intestines. Parasites are a concern, especially in fish. Freezing meat for a couple of weeks can help. Keep an eye on protein intake,chickens don't need excessive amounts, and too much can lead to kidney strain.

[EggHatchHobbyist]

Chickens will self-regulate to some degree, but I wouldn't rely on meat alone as a primary supplement. Free-ranging will help them balance their intake, and their feed should provide the right nutrients. Game scraps are great, but too much organ meat can cause vitamin imbalances.

[HatchMaster]

Wild game is a great seasonal supplement, but it shouldn't replace a nutritionally balanced feed. If you're feeding a lot of protein, consider extra calcium sources to balance things out. Chickens handle raw meat well, but parasite concerns with fish are valid. Freezing or a quick boil can help reduce risks.

[HenHouseMystic]

If feeding fish, consider cooking or freezing first to kill parasites. Chickens can handle most meats, but bones should be raw to prevent splintering. Too much protein can cause excessive growth issues, especially in young birds. Make sure their primary diet remains balanced with a good feed.

[PeckingPioneer]

Chickens can eat raw meat, but freezing it first helps kill parasites. Fish scraps are fine, but avoid feeding spoiled or parasite-ridden parts.

[FeatheredTraveler]

Liver is safe in moderation, but too much can cause vitamin A toxicity. Avoid feeding intestines due to parasite risks.

[PluckyPeep]

High protein isn't usually an issue, but too much can cause kidney problems. Watch for excessive urates in droppings as a sign.