The Best Summer Treats for Your Chickens: Keep Your Flock Cool and Happy
Raising chickens is a rewarding hobby, but when the summer heat kicks in, our feathered friends can feel the burn. Chickens don’t sweat like we do, so providing the right treats isn’t just about “spoiling” them—it’s about hydration and health.
Here is your guide to the best summer treats and how to keep your flock refreshed during the sunny months.
The Ultimate Hydrators: Melons and Berries
High water content is key for summer snacks.
Watermelon: This is the gold standard for chicken treats. It’s hydrating, easy to peck, and chickens absolutely love it. You can even serve the rind!
Cantaloupe & Honeydew: Scoop out the seeds (a chicken favorite) and let them go to town on the flesh.
Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants.
Frozen Delights
When the temperature climbs above 30°C (86°F), it’s time to get creative with the freezer.
Frozen Corn & Peas: A handful of frozen peas in a shallow dish of water provides hours of “fishing” entertainment.
The “Ice Block” Cake: Fill a Bundt pan or a plastic container with water, toss in some chopped greens, seeds, and berries, and freeze it solid. Place the ice block in the run for a slow-release cooling treat.
Garden Fresh Greens
Summer is the season of abundance. Use your garden leftovers to treat your flock:
Cucumber: Sliced or hung on a “veggie skewer,” cucumbers are incredibly cooling.
Herbs: Mint is known for its cooling properties. Add fresh mint leaves to their nesting boxes or their waterer.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard provide essential vitamins. Avoid giving them too much iceberg lettuce, as it has very little nutritional value.
Protein Boosters (The Fun Stuff)
Chickens need protein for feather quality and egg production, especially if they are molting.
Mealworms: Whether dried or live, these are like “chicken candy.”
Black Soldier Fly Larvae: A sustainable and high-calcium alternative to mealworms.
Summer Safety Tips: How to Spoils Them Responsibly
The 10% Rule: Treats should never make up more than 10% of your chickens’ total diet. Their primary layer feed is where they get their balanced nutrition.
Afternoon Timing: Give treats in the late afternoon. Digestion creates internal body heat, so it’s better to feed heavy snacks when the day is starting to cool down.
Fresh Water is Priority #1: No treat can replace clean, cool water. Add ice cubes to their waterer during heatwaves.
Avoid the “No-Go” Foods: Never give your chickens avocado pits/peels, chocolate, salty snacks, or anything moldy.
Final Thoughts
A happy hen is a healthy hen! By providing these cooling treats, you’ll not only help your flock survive the summer heat but also enjoy the hilarious sight of a dozen chickens sprinting toward a slice of watermelon.
However, remember that the best way to keep your birds safe from the elements starts with their home. If you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your setup, be sure to check out our step-by-step guide on how to build the perfect chicken coop to ensure your flock stays comfortable all year round.