Safe Frozen Treats

Hot weather can significantly impact the health and well-being of fowl, including chickens, ducks and game birds like quail. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat stress, increase the risk of dehydration and negatively affect egg production. Additionally, nutrient deficiencies and respiratory issues can make these birds more susceptible to disease and cause behavioral changes.

There are many ways to enrich a fowl’s behavior and add some nutritional benefits by providing frozen treats.

Frozen Fruit and Veggies

Frozen fruit and veggie treats can be a delightful and beneficial addition to a chicken, quail or waterfowl diet, especially during hot weather. Cut them up, freeze or put in ice cubes.

Blueberries, strawberries and watermelon are great fruits to freeze. Watermelon and berries have high water content, helping chickens, quail and other fowl stay hydrated in hot weather.

Many vegetables also have high water content. Frozen peas, corn, carrots, green beans and broccoli are excellent options that can be served frozen.

The frozen nature of these treats provides a cooling effect, helping the birds regulate their body temperatures.

Fruits and veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals that contribute to the overall health of chickens and quail. For example, blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Pecking at frozen treats keeps chickens and quail entertained and engaged, reducing boredom and associated negative behaviors.

The fiber content in fruits aids in digestion and can help maintain a healthy gut.

By incorporating these frozen treats into your fowls’ diet, you can provide them with a healthy, enjoyable way to beat the heat and boost their nutrition. Pecking and foraging encourages natural behaviors, promoting mental stimulation and physical activity.

The fruit and vegetables can be frozen, thawed or mixed in water to make ice cubes.

For both frozen fruits and vegetables, cut or break them into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking and make them easier to consume. Serve frozen fruit and vegetables in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid digestive issues.

Always remove any uneaten vegetables or fruit from the coop to prevent attracting pests and avoid spoilage.

Mealworms

Mealworms are rich in protein and essential for muscle development, feather growth and overall health. The frozen aspect of mealworms helps fowl cool down during the hot weather. If using broth or water, making the mealworms into a popsicle will aid in hydration. Crickets and soldier flies are also great protein insects that birds enjoy.

Mealworm Popsicle Recipe

Ingredients:

• Mealworms (dried or fresh).
• Water or chicken-safe broth.
• Optional: fruits or vegetables.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mold: Use ice cube trays or small cups as molds.

2. Mix Ingredients: Place mealworms and any optional fruits or vegetables into the molds.

3. Add liquid: Fill the molds with water or chicken-safe broth.

4. Freeze: Place the filled molds with water in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely.

5. Serve: Once frozen, pop out the mealworm popsicles and offer them to your fowl.

B12 Energy Bites

Add B12 to the water to create some energy frozen treats. You can use sheep or goat drench and mix with water to create ice cubes. The ice cubes are pink and entices the birds to peck.

Most chicken keepers use dried herbs but can also consider adding them to ice cubes. Oregano is a natural antibiotic and offers immune system support. Adding it to water and freezing it helps regulate body temperature and supports respiratory health.

If you have leftover eggs, scramble and freeze them for added protein that’s essential for muscle development and feather growth. Eggs contain essential amino acids vital for various bodily functions, including immune response and cell repair. They also provide vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, D, E and B12, riboflavin and folate. The fats and proteins in eggs also provide a great energy source, which is especially beneficial for growing chicks, molting birds or chickens recovering from illness.

With any treats, make sure that all treats are given in moderation. Always monitor them when introducing new foods to ensure no adverse effects.