I remember the time when my backyard turned into what seemed like a scene out of an old western flick.
A swarm of locusts had decided to throw a hoedown, and my flock of chickens looked on as if they’d just spotted a Vegas buffet sign.
Now, I’ll be honest, my first thought wasn’t, “Can my chickens eat these critters?” No, sir.
It was more like, “How in the heck am I gonna clean up this mess?”
But then, as if struck by a lightning bolt of curiosity, one brave hen, whom I affectionately named Goldie, strutted towards the swarm.
With the gusto of a kid on Halloween, she gobbled up a locust like it was a piece of candy.
And then another.
And another.
That’s when the light bulb flickered on.
Could these be a free, protein-packed snack delivered right to my doorstep? So, I did the research, and guess what?
Chickens can indeed eat locusts, and they absolutely love ’em!
But hold your horses, partner, because there’s more to it than just free snacks falling from the sky.
Before you let your flock turn into insect-gobbling machines, there are a few things you need to know:
Are Locusts Safe for Chickens?
So, you’re probably wondering if these little jumpers are safe for your beaked buddies.
Well, in the wild, chickens scratch and peck at all sorts of creepy crawlies, including locusts.
They’re like the original pest control experts.
Here’s the scoop: Locusts are high in protein and low in fat, making them a nutritional jackpot for chickens.
Plus, they’re a natural part of a chicken’s diet.
However, there’s a catch.
You gotta make sure those locusts haven’t been exposed to pesticides because that could spell trouble for your flock.
What’s the Nutritional Value of Locusts for Chickens?
When it comes to snacks, locusts are like the superfood of the insect world for chickens. Check out why they’re a hit:
- Protein: They’re packing some serious muscle-building power.
- Vitamins: A, E, and a bunch of B’s – it’s like a multivitamin in bug form.
- Minerals: Including iron, zinc, and potassium. Talk about hitting the jackpot!
Feeding your chickens locusts is like giving them a tiny treasure chest of goodies that help them lay top-notch eggs and strut their stuff with glossy feathers.
Can Chickens Help Control Locust Swarms?
Believe it or not, your chicken posse can be part of the locust wrangling squad.
These birds can help keep the population down, making them the eco-friendly option to pest control.
Just imagine your flock as tiny, feathered, superhero pest managers.
So, if Mother Nature throws a locust party in your yard, your chickens might just be the guest of honor, ready to chow down and save the day.
Alright, folks.
There you have it.
Chickens and locusts go together like peanut butter and jelly, like cowboys and their boots.
Just ensure those locusts are clean, and your chickens will do the rest, keeping their bellies full and your yard pest-free.
Now, go on and watch the natural pecking order take place.
It’s quite the show!
The Best Ways To Feed Your Chickens Grasshoppers
Now while my girls stay well-fed from natural foraging, there have been times I like giving them an extra insect indulgence.
I’ve tried all kinds of clever techniques over the years but scattering live buckets is definitely their most favorite.
There was this one perfect summer the hoppers were as thick as the stars and I just had to share the bounty.
So one August evening after the sun went down and the bugs were really buzzing, I filled an old molasses pail to the brim.
The second I dumped that wriggling mass into the run, the little tyrannosaurs went absolutely bonkers!
It was like something from a David Attenborough film the way they thrashed and scrabbled through the panicking bugs.
When the dust settled an hour later, not a antenna was left on the ground – my flock had scored the motherlode for sure.
Now that’s what I call insect feeding fun for the whole homestead – you ain’t never seen chickens so doggone happy!
Watch For Over-Excitement When Feeding Live Insects
Now while them bucket dumps are a riot to watch, they sure can also get the birds a little too riled up if I’m not paying attention.
One time I may have gotten a smidge too generous with the helpings and dumped nearly two full pails in at dusk.
Well let me tell you, within minutes it was an all-out prehistoric paddywhack out there!
Feathers were a-flyin as they scrabbled and snapped through the seething masses of hoppers.
A few of the younger hens got themselves so worked up they started battering each other accidentally.
It was then I realized live bug bonanzas are best done in smaller batches to avoid any squabbles.
Nowadays I always watch close and pull any aggressors for time outs to keep the peace.
With the right supervision, chickens can indulge safely every summer on them hopper hauls, that’s for darn sure!
Signs Your Chickens Are Getting Too Many Grasshoppers
While a grasshopper smorgasbord is usually welcomed, too much of even good things can cause issues.
Watch for telltale signs like weight loss, lethargy or loose smelly stools in your flock.
Overindulging on certain insects may upset GI balance much like too rich human food.
Elderly, very young or stressed chickens are most prone to issues from excess grasshoppers.
If concerning symptoms arise, curb insect exposure and offer balanced diet and fluids for a few days.
With common sense moderation, grasshoppers offer safe and relished supplemental protein all summer long.
Storing Extra Grasshoppers For Winter Treats
If grasshopper bounties exceed chickens’ immediate needs, don’t let the excess go to waste!
Live insects can be placed in the freezer where they will perish within a few hours.
Thawed hoppers will still twitch enough to intrigue hens as a winter snack between mealworms.
Dried grasshoppers can also be stored in an airtight container for months without losing nutrients.
Come January, your flock will love pecking at frozen or dried grasshoppers as a special seasonal treat.
With a little prep work, chickens can relish their favorite summer bug all winter long too.
Serving Up Grasshoppers For Chicks And Pullets
Don’t forget young chickens also love themselves some grasshoppers now and again.
For baby chicks still learning to forage, mash larger hoppers between fingertips first.
This ensures tiny beaks can easily grab and consume whole insects for optimal nourishment.
As pullets grow, leave grasshoppers more intact for developing predator skills.
Supply baby bugs like ants, sowbugs and springtails as first insect introductions.
With age-appropriate offerings, even the littlest chickens can partake in beloved backyard bug buffets.
