Can Chickens Eat Tent Caterpillars? Plucked Poultry Paradise

Tent caterpillars, the infamous defoliators of trees, can become a nuisance in your garden. However, did you know that these pests can also be a nutritious snack for your feathered friends?

Benefits of Feeding Chickens Tent Caterpillars

• High in Protein: Tent caterpillars contain about 60% protein, making them an excellent source of essential amino acids for your chickens' growth and development.
• Natural De-Wormer: The tannins present in tent caterpillars are known to have anthelmintic properties, which can help keep your chickens free from internal parasites.
• Additional Nutrients: Caterpillars are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C.

How to Feed Tent Caterpillars to Chickens

Remove Toxic Hairs: Before offering tent caterpillars to your chickens, it's crucial to remove the toxic hairs that cover their bodies. You can do this by boiling the caterpillars for 10-15 minutes.

Moderate Consumption: While tent caterpillars are beneficial, it's important to feed them to your chickens in moderation. Overconsumption can lead to digestive issues.

Harvesting Caterpillars: You can harvest tent caterpillars by shaking them off infested trees into a bucket or tarp. Remember to wear gloves and long sleeves for protection.

Story 1: Polly the Profitable Poultry

Polly, a free-range chicken farmer, noticed a significant increase in her egg production after introducing tent caterpillars into her chickens' diet. The caterpillars' high protein content provided the chickens with the essential amino acids they needed for optimal egg production.

Story 2: Henrietta's Healthy Chickens

Henrietta had been struggling with parasite infestations in her chicken coop. Upon learning about the anthelmintic properties of tent caterpillars, she started feeding them to her chickens. Within a few weeks, her chickens were worm-free and healthier than ever before.