pullusleggus Posted June 8, 2015 Share Posted June 8, 2015 Does anyone know if it is alright to give chicks dandelion leaves? Mine are outdoors with a broody hen and are about 1 1/2 weeks old now. I gave their Mum some leaves and tore tiny pieces off for them but she became agitated and ate them herself. I'm just curious about whether or not this is a protective behaviour on her part, or did she just refuse to share?! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Beantree Posted June 9, 2015 Share Posted June 9, 2015 At that age I think they are too young to eat the leaves Pullus. They are likely to impact the digestive system and I would say the hen was being a great mother and being protective. I was terrified that our chicks would eat the wood shavings bedding at 3 weeks old, having been on kitchen roll to that point. Well some of them scattered it into the water and ate it but they all survived. Perhaps she will behave differently in another week or so? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pullusleggus Posted June 9, 2015 Author Share Posted June 9, 2015 I am so proud of Norma! What a good Mum she is. Whilst it is nothing to do with me I shall bask in reflected glory (and stop risking the chicks getting any leaves). Thanks Beantree. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
