Raising backyard chickens is becoming increasingly popular. It’s an effective way to be self-sustainable and earn money. If you are raising chickens and want to create a mealworm farm for them, you’re in the right place.
Put wheat bran or other grains in a plastic container. Place the mealworms there and replenish the substrate regularly. You may give 10-20 mealworms per day to a chicken.
Benefits of Mealworms for Chickens
Chickens are at their healthiest when provided with a balanced diet that consists of various protein sources. We know that chickens love worms, but mealworms are particulary good for them. Technically these aren’t really worms, but there’s no denying their benefits.
I recommend that chickens should have a balanced diet. But mealworms are going to make them that much healthier for the following reasons.
High protein content. Mealworms pack around 50% protein, which chickens and other livestock need. This nutrient is crucial for chickens’ growth, feather production and general well-being.
Rich in other nutrients. Mealworms are also full of amino acids, vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, healthy feathers, and overall vitality in chickens.
Promotes foraging behavior. Feeding mealworms engages the chickens’ natural foraging instincts. This is important because it keeps chickens active, and an active chicken is a healthy one. This also minimizes boredom-related behaviors such as feather picking or aggression.
Stimulates egg production. The high protein content in mealworms can improve egg production. It also helps enhance egg quality and strengthens the hen\s immune system.
Cost efficient. Raising mealworms at home can be a cost-effective option compared to purchasing them from stores or online. It also ensures that you provide your chickens with a quality, organic food source.
Make a Chicken Mealworm Farm
Creating a mealworm farm for chickens doesn’t take a lot of effort or money. Even if you’re a beginner you can do this without any problems.
For more details, here is a complete guide on mealworm farming for beginners.
Buy a container. Get a well-ventilated container. I use a plastic storage bin or a large glass aquarium. Make sure the container’s walls are smooth and high so the mealworms cannot climb out.
Fill the container substrate. This also serves as the bedding. Fill the bottom of the container with about 2-3 inches of substrate. The best choices are oats, bran, or wheat germ.
This layer is going to serve as a base for the mealworms’ habitat. They will also eat these but you should also provide other foods.
Place the mealworms in the container. You can buy mealworms online or pet supply stores. You can start with as little as 200, but 1000-2000 is ideal. Place the mealworms on the substrate.
Add food and moisture. You are almost done. While mealworms will eat the substrate, you should also provide them with other foods. Foods that supply moisture and nutrients are ensure your mealworms are on a balanced diet.
Supply your mealworms with fresh vegetables, fruits, or kitchen scraps as a food source. Adding a piece of damp sponge or a slice of potato will provide the necessary moisture for their survival.
Maintenance and Harvest
Keep a close eye on your mealworm farm as it must be clean and dry. Replace food items when necessary. Eventually, you will see the larvae pupating and turn into beetles.
These beetles are going to breed and lay eggs, repeating the cycle. With your farm it’s now easy to provide a constant supply of grub for your chickens.
Harveting mealworms. Separate the pupae and beetles from the larvae. Gather the larvae and feed your chickens. Store them in the refrigerator or in a separate container with food to keep them alive.
These might take some getting used to if you’re new, but after a short while all of these will be second nature.
How Many Mealworms Should a Chicken Eat Per Day?
The amount of mealworms chickens should eat daily depends on many factors. These include the age, size, and overall health of the chicken.
Mealworms are a rich source of protein and essential nutrients for chickens, which makes them a great supplement. But too much isn’t a good thing either.
For adult chickens, it’s best to offer mealworms as a treat rather than a staple food. Chickens have specific dietary requirements which are met by their main feed.
Typically these are grains and vegetables. Adding mealworms as a treat adds variety to their diet. But if you want to make mealworms a daily part of their diet, here are some suggestions.
An adult chicken can eat 10 to 20 mealworms a day. But be careful not to give them too much. Too many mealworms can lead to an imbalanced diet and cause obesity or nutrient deficiencies.
You can feed growing chickens with a little more mealworms. How much depends on their nutritional needs. Consult a poultry nutrition expert or vet. You might have to adjust the rest of their diet depending on how many mealworms you want to feed them.
Remember, mealworms should never replace the main diet of chickens but rather be included as a healthy snack. Always make sure that your chickens have access to fresh water and a balanced, complete diet.
Is it Possible to Overfeed Mealworms to Chicken?
Yes, it is possible. Mealworms are good for chickens and even dogs. But too much is not good for their long term health.
Chickens require a diverse diet to meet all of their nutritional needs. relying solely on mealworms can cause deficiencies in other areas. Your chicken for example, might end up with too much protein but lack other nutrients.
Overfeeding mealworms can lead to obesity and health issues. I have seen chickens get too fat from being given too many mealworms and it’s not good for egg production or their health.
Mealworms are nutritious and something you should give chickens regularly. But too much of it is not good.
What’s important is your chickens do get mealworms but also other kinds of food to supplement their diet. This is something to keep in mind especially if you are new to mealworm farming or raising chickens for the first time.
What Age Do Chickens Start to Eat Mealworms?
Chickens typically start eating mealworms at 12 to 16 weeks of age. This is the time when chickens move from a diet of 100% starter feed to a more varied one. Now is a good time to introduce mealworms.
During the first few weeks after hatching, chicks rely solely on chick starter feed. This is correct because those are formulated to meet their nutritional needs. As they grow older, their digestive systems develop and they become ready to eat a wider range of foods.
How to Add Mealworms to a Chicken’s Diet
Slowly add treats such as mealworms at the appropriate age. Do it slowly and observe their reaction. Slowly increase the amount and frequency until you reach the limit set by your vet.
Eventually you will see the benefits of giving chickens mealworms. They’ll be healthier and less prone to illness.
At this point you might be tempted to give them more. I would still go with a moderate approach to maintain a balanced diet.
You don’t have to choose between mealworms and feeds for your chicken. They can have both as long as it is in regulated amounts.
I want to add that while most chickens are ready to eat mealworms at 12 to 16 weeks, individual variations may occur. Some chickens may show interest in mealworms earlier, while others may take longer. It’s always important to observe your chickens’ behavior and provide treats when you feel they are ready for it.
Conclusion
By farming mealworms for your chickens, you can provide them with a high-protein, nutritious snack. It also engaging their natural foraging instincts and promotes physical activity.
Remember to maintain a clean and suitable environment for the mealworms. This is necessary for them to thrive.
