Deep Freeze

[Chickenman623]

We are in Central Oklahoma. We've been in a literal deep freeze for the past two weeks. Right now we are in the midst of a minor ice storm. Suffice it to say our weather is miserable. Would our hens benefit from suet cakes...................like we feed the wild birds in the Winter to help them stay warm? Or might it harm them? After losing our favorite hen a few days ago I'm hesitant to try anything new.

 

[Penpal]

You could give it to them until the weather breaks. You can also feed something with a relatively high oil count. Like sunflower seeds, specifically BOSS.

 

[Chickenman623]

Might sound silly, but would the hulls of the sunflower seeds hurt them or would it just be more ruffage?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Might sound silly, but would the hulls of the sunflower seeds hurt them or would it just be more ruffage?

Unshelled sunflower seeds are no problem for chickens as long as they have access to grit to help break it down.

 

[Penpal]

I feed with the shell. I presoak for about 12 hours, which makes the shells softer and easier to break down.