Feed chickens scratch grains as a treat in moderation, ideally in the late afternoon, to supplement their diet and encourage natural foraging behavior.
Chicken scratch is a favorite treat for backyard flocks, but improper feeding can lead to health issues. This guide reveals the best times to offer scratch grains while keeping your chickens healthy and productive.
What Exactly Is Chicken Scratch?
Chicken scratch is a mix of cracked corn, grains, and seeds that mimics what chickens naturally forage. Typical ingredients include:
- Cracked corn
- Millet
- Barley
- Oats
- Wheat
- Sunflower seeds
Unlike complete feeds, scratch lacks balanced nutrition. As the Backyard Chickens article notes, it’s “more like dessert than dinner” for your flock.
Optimal Times to Feed Scratch Grains
1. Winter Months
Scratch provides extra calories that help chickens stay warm. The high carbohydrate content generates body heat during digestion. Feed small amounts in late afternoon so the energy boost lasts through cold nights.
2. Training Sessions
Use scratch as a reward when training chickens to come when called. The strong food motivation helps reinforce desired behaviors.
3. Before Bedtime
A small scratch serving at dusk keeps chickens occupied and reduces nighttime squabbles in the coop. This works well when introducing new chickens to an existing flock.
When to Avoid Scratch
| Situation | Reason |
|---|---|
| Hot summer days | Extra heat from digestion causes stress |
| Molting period | Chickens need high-protein feed for feather regrowth |
| Broody hens | Nutritional imbalance affects egg production |
Proper Feeding Amounts
The University of Kentucky Poultry Extension recommends limiting scratch to:
- No more than 10% of daily intake
- About 2 teaspoons per standard-sized chicken
- 1/2 cup daily for a flock of 10 chickens
Signs You’re Overfeeding Scratch
- Leftover grains accumulating in run
- Decreased egg production
- Weight gain in non-meat birds
- Pale combs and wattles
Scratch Feeding Tips
1. Always Provide Grit
Chickens need insoluble grit to digest scratch properly. Offer granite grit free-choice when feeding grains.
2. Use as Forage Stimulant
Scatter scratch in deep bedding to encourage natural scratching behavior and pest control.
3. Mix with Healthier Options
Combine scratch with dried mealworms or herbs like oregano for added nutrition.
Alternatives to Commercial Scratch
For healthier treat options, consider:
- Chopped leafy greens
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sprouted grains
- Dried soldier fly larvae
- Chopped vegetables
Remember that scratch should complement – not replace – a balanced diet of quality layer feed, fresh water, and free-range foraging opportunities.