Do Chickens Eat Corn Husks and Silk? Need Your Thoughts!

Poultry Nutrition
1

I’m new to raising chickens and I’m looking for some advice on their diet. Specifically, I want to know if it’s safe to feed them corn husks and silk. From what I’ve gathered, corn husks can be fed to chickens in moderation, but I’m a bit unsure about how much is too much. Also, I’ve heard that corn silk is not just safe, but that they seem to enjoy it!

Here are my questions:

  • What’s your experience with feeding corn husks to chickens?
  • Is there any nutritional benefit to the silk for them?
  • Are there any risks I should be aware of?

I’m eager to keep my birds healthy and would love to hear your insights or any tips you have for incorporating these parts of the corn plant into their diet. I appreciate any advice you can offer to help me out!

2

I’ve read that corn husks are high in fiber but low in protein. They can add bulk to a chicken’s diet without providing a ton of nutrients. Silk adds a bit of sweetness but isn’t very nutrient-dense either. Everything in moderation, I say!

3

That’s interesting! Is there any risk of digestive issues if they eat too much husk? I wanted to know if anyone has seen any negative reactions.

4

Chickens can handle some corn husks, especially if they’re mixed with other foods. Just make sure it’s not their only source of nutrition! I’ve seen my hens eat it and they seem to enjoy it.

5

Absolutely! I think variety is key. Any recommendations for good things to mix with it?

6

You can mix husks with kitchen scraps or protein sources like mealworms! Corn silk can be a treat too; my chickens go crazy for it! It can definitely liven up their meals.

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7

I usually chop up the husks to make them easier to eat. But have you noticed any changes in their egg production after adding corn husks to their diet?

8

I’d say my chickens’ egg production has remained steady. They’re not picky; if it’s food, they eat it! That’s just chickens for you!

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9

Still, it sounds like a lot of extra work! I’d rather stick to commercially made feed. Do you think the husks really make a difference?

10

I think they’re great for variety and keeping your chickens entertained! It’s about quality of life for them too. Plus, it’s fun to watch them peck at different foods.

11

Ha! Watching chickens eat anything is a treat in itself! I just wonder if it’s worth the effort when they have perfectly good feed.

12

That’s a fair point! There’s something to be said for simple feeding routines. Maybe corn husks should be more of an occasional treat rather than a staple!

13

Chickens can definitely eat corn husks and silk! I’ve fed mine the husks after corn season is done. Just make sure they are chopped into smaller pieces to prevent choking.

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14

That’s great to hear! Do you just toss the pieces in the coop, or do you mix them with their regular feed?

15

I usually toss them directly on the ground. They love scratching around for them, so it’s like a little treasure hunt for the hens!

16

What a fun way to feed them! Any tips on how to prepare the husks and silk easier to handle?

17

Before tossing them out, I rip the husks into smaller strips. The silk just gets sprinkled. Makes it easier for the chickens to gobble them up!

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18

A friend of mine warned against large pieces of husks causing blockages, so definitely chop them up. I haven’t seen issues, but better safe than sorry!

19

Good call! Have you noticed if they prefer the husks over the silk or vice versa?

20

Honestly, they go crazy for the silk! I think it’s a texture thing. But they do enjoy the husks, especially when they’re fresh.

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