The Poultry Keeper

Becka · Joined: 06 Jun 2005 Posts: 24 Location: Glasgow

Could someone please tell me if buttercups are poisonous to chickens? I seem to remember reading something about them but can't quite remember what it was exactly! Many thanks.

George · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 5661 Location: London

Hi Becka

They aren't good for your chickens apparently as they can cause internal blisters

http://www.kippengrabbelton.be/engels/index.htm

All the best
George

debcat · Posted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 5:49 pm Post subject:

Not sure about hens, but in horses they cause irritation and swelling of the lips if they eat too many can't remember why though

chicken mummy · Joined: 26 Jun 2005 Posts: 25

If something is poisonous or will do some harm will the chickens still eat it?

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

I'd like to say 'no' they won't eat it, and on the whole they won't but as in all things you will always get the one that proves the case. Is it something in particular you are worried about or just asking in general?

chicken mummy · Joined: 26 Jun 2005 Posts: 25

No nothing in particular, just trying not to give them anything that might harm them. They don't free range and love all the greens etc that I hang in their play pen - not sure that they are bright enough to distinguish between good and bad food. I know that I'm not!

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

I think on the whole most animals stay away from dangerous foods.
I have let my girls free range the garden and I admit unreservedly that I didn't go around the garden and check that there was nothing in it that would harm them. I assumed my chickens would be smart ~ and they are!!

George · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 5661 Location: London

Well, I would tend to agree, but they do like to taste things so it's possible for them to eat a little,

But then I have buttercups and Laburnum in my garden and they all still seem to be in good health