Mixed corn is the scratch feed chickens come running for: a mix of whole and cracked grains that you scatter on the ground, so the birds start scratching and foraging. It is an addition to layers feed, not a replacement. In this collection you will find, among others, Wierikx Kippenvoer Gemengd Graan, Wierikx cracked maize, Kasper Faunafood Multigrain for poultry and De Vries Kippenvoer Deluxe.
Mixed corn, maize or multigrain?
- Mixed corn: a varied mix that encourages natural foraging behaviour. Handy as a daily afternoon treat.
- Cracked maize: energy-rich and popular, especially useful in cold spells. Feed it in moderation, because a lot of maize quickly makes chickens too fat.
- Multigrain: a mix of different grains for those who want a bit more variety in the grain.
Large breeds handle whole grains easily. For bantams and young hens, a finer mix or cracked maize is easier to eat.
How and when to scatter grain
The best time is the afternoon or early evening. The chickens have already eaten their layers feed, and they go into the night with a full crop. Do not scatter more than the flock clears up in a quarter of an hour; whatever is left attracts rats and pigeons. In a muddy run, you are better off giving the grain in a low trough than on the ground.
Because chickens grind whole grains in their gizzard, grit always belongs with grain. If they forage on bare ground, they often find small stones themselves, but in a run with sand or paving, put out grit separately.
Points to note
Grain contains little calcium and protein. If you give too much of it, hens leave their layers pellets or layers mash and shell quality can decline. So keep grain as a treat. Store it in a sealed bin; an open sack in the shed soon becomes a feeding station for mice. Looking for other treats? See mealworms and treats or peck blocks. All types of feed are together under chicken feed and treats.
Frequently asked questions
How much grain do you give chickens per day?
As much as the flock eats in about a quarter of an hour. Layers feed remains the main meal.
Is cracked maize good for chickens?
As an extra, yes, especially in winter. A lot of maize does make chickens heavy quickly, so keep it to a handful.
Do I need to give grit with grain?
Yes, grit helps the gizzard grind whole grains. Put it out separately if your chickens find few natural stones.