Chickens are natural foragers with an omnivorous diet, meaning they readily consume both plant and animal matter. Their foraging instinct drives them to seek a wide variety of food sources, including seeds, grasses, fruits, vegetables, and small invertebrates. Their digestive system is well-equipped to process this varied intake, which includes insects and larvae found while scratching the soil. This natural behavior helps ensure they receive a balanced nutritional profile.
Chickens as Natural Insect Predators
Chickens consume caterpillars and other soft-bodied larvae as a regular part of their diet when foraging. This behavior is motivated by the high nutritional value found in these invertebrates, which are packed with concentrated protein. Some edible caterpillars contain significantly higher protein levels than chicken meat, with content reaching up to 53 grams per 100 grams.
The protein and fat content from insects is beneficial for laying hens, supporting consistent egg production and feather health. Chickens are highly efficient at locating these slow-moving targets, often scratching the soil surface to expose them. They actively hunt and consume grubs, beetles, and moth larvae as a natural protein supplement.
Identifying Caterpillars That Are Toxic
While chickens eat most caterpillars they encounter, certain species possess defense mechanisms that render them toxic or unpalatable. The primary defense indicators are visual cues, a phenomenon known as aposematism, where bright coloration warns predators of toxicity. Smooth, drab-colored caterpillars are safe, while those displaying vivid colors like bright yellow, red, or orange should be viewed with caution.
A more immediate danger comes from caterpillars covered in dense hair, spines, or bristles, which can be venomous or cause irritation. Examples of stinging species include the Southern Flannel Moth (puss caterpillar), the Buck Moth caterpillar, and the Hickory Tussock Moth caterpillar. Chickens often instinctively avoid these fuzzy larvae, but accidental ingestion can still occur, leading to distress or illness. Furthermore, some caterpillars, such as Monarch butterfly larvae, accumulate toxins from their host plants, making them poisonous.
Safe Feeding Practices in the Garden
Allowing chickens controlled access to garden areas is an effective way to leverage their natural predatory instincts for pest management. To prevent them from damaging desirable plants, direct supervision is often the most effective tool. Garden keepers can allow their flock short, supervised “bug patrols” for a limited time, such as 30 minutes to an hour, particularly around dusk when many pests are active.
Using temporary electric netting or portable enclosures, sometimes called chicken tractors, can also confine the birds to a specific area. This method allows them to clear pests from a designated patch of soil without accessing the main vegetable beds. The best time to deploy the flock is typically in the early spring before planting and in the fall after the main harvest, allowing them to clean up overwintering pests and weed seeds.