The experiment of fodder started when we realized how much the store feed was costing us and how much the birds enjoy fresh greens. Though we would love to fully free range our flocks, we can't due to the high numbers of predators in our area. There are ravens, coyotes, many types of hawks, cougars, bobcats and dogs. As such, we do not feel it is in the best interest of the chickens to be free ranged. They can only be safely free ranged when we are available to watch them. We have covered, movable pens that allow access to fresh grass at other times. Feeding whole grains, kitchen and garden scraps is working well. About six months ago we started raising meal worms for additional protein; they LOVE them! We have continued growing and feeding fodder. With the changes in diet, the birds seem happier and healthier . The birds still enjoy store bought feed to make sure that they receive everything needed but we have found they only eat about a quarter of what they used to. Hopefully with some more experimentation, trial and error we can take them off of the store bought feed completely. Favorite summer treats are bugs of all kinds but the abundant grasshoppers seem to be a favorite!
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