Flock Block and Sticker Shock!
Do you notice the outrageous price of a Flock Block? YES, absolutely! And looked at all of the ingredients in it? I took a quick look, and to be honest, I didn't even recognize everything in the block! So I asked myself, "Can I make a healthy flock block?"
What is a Flock Block?
A flock blocks design provides entertainment to prevent boredom and snacks for chickens and ducks. It also provides your flock with grits and oyster shells (ensures hard eggshells and strong bones) and grains. It is not the primary feed for your chickens.
Has anyone had trouble with chickens pecking on each other? Yup, me too! It is especially noticeable when they do not get outside time in the winter months. That's why I provide the flock block. Also, if you will be gone a few days and the "chicken sitter" cannot be there all the time, the flock block is a great choice.
Are Flock Blocks Healthy for Chickens?
Yes, especially if you know all of the ingredients in the flock block. Chickens will instinctively peck and break apart anything their beaks can reach; that is natural. I want my chickens to be healthy and strong, and I can provide that, including entertainment with a nutritious flock block!
Here are the
ingredients
and the recipe
I use it for my
chickens
and ducks.
Also Needed:
Loaf Pans (large or small)
2 Mixing Bowls
Whisk
Wooden Spoon
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°.
Step One: In a mixing bowl, whisk the molasses, coconut oil (room temperature),
eggs.
Step Two: In another mixing bowl, mix the remainder of the dry ingredients.
Step Three: Crush the eggshells into small pieces and mix them into the dry
ingredients.
Step Four: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until well combined.
Step Five: Press in loaf pan (I fill about 3/4 full).
If you want to hang the block; use the handle end of the wooden
spoon, poke a hole (to the bottom) before putting it into
the oven.
Step Six: Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Step Seven: Remove from oven and let cool completely in the loaf pan.
(I have rushed the process, and it has fallen apart).
Tips for Flock Block
Feel free to mix and match any chicken-friendly foods you can find in your pantry! Because I live on a farm, I have used cracked corn instead of scratch grain—the same thing on the oats; oatmeal or oats from a farm store. You can substitute sunflower seeds for pumpkin seeds. There are many options that your chickens will love, and they will still be nutritious!
I do not recommend giving chicks (under eight weeks old) flock block. They need the vitamins and minerals in their commercial feed to grow correctly.
Our chickens are like family, and we want them to live a long, happy, healthy life! I hope your chickens enjoy this recipe as much as ours.
Printable Recipe
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