14/06/2026
📚 References & Further Reading
🐔 Chickens are natural omnivores. In free-range environments they actively consume:
• Insects
• Worms
• Grubs
• Small reptiles and amphibians
• Seeds and vegetation
Research & Nutrition References:
• USDA, Nutrient Requirements of Poultry (National Research Council) – Laying hens require adequate dietary protein and essential amino acids such as methionine and lysine for egg production and health.
• USDA Agricultural Research Service – Protein and amino acids are critical for feather development, growth, immunity, and egg formation.
• University of Kentucky Poultry Extension – Chickens naturally forage for insects and other animal protein sources to supplement their diet.
• Penn State Extension – Free-range chickens consume insects, larvae, and worms as part of their normal feeding behavior.
• New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) – Poultry feeds must provide balanced nutrition, including adequate protein, to support health and production.
• Massey University (NZ) Poultry Research – Protein quality directly affects egg production, growth, and bird welfare.
Examples of NZ-Available Protein Sources:
✅ Mealworms
✅ Black Soldier Fly Larvae
✅ Fish Meal
✅ Meat Meal
✅ Layer Pellets/Crumbles
✅ Insect Protein Supplements
✅ Cooked eggs (fed appropriately)
✅ Foraged insects and worms
FYIP – For Your Information Please 💚
“Chickens are not vegetarians by nature. They are omnivores that thrive on a balanced diet containing both plant and animal protein sources.”
