Can chickens eat corn? Discover the benefits of whole vs. cracked corn for chickens, whether deer corn is safe, and how much to feed daily. Get expert poultry feeding tips from Agromer!

Corn is one of the most common grains used in poultry feed, but many chicken owners wonder, can chickens eat corn? The answer is yes, chickens can eat corn, but knowing the right type—whole, cracked, or deer corn—and the correct feeding methods is essential for their health and nutrition.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything about feeding corn to chickens, including whole corn vs. cracked corn for chickens, whether chickens can eat deer corn, and the overall benefits of corn in a poultry diet.

Can Chickens Eat Corn?

Yes, chickens can eat corn, and it is one of the best sources of energy for them. Corn is packed with carbohydrates, which help chickens stay warm and active. However, it should be part of a balanced diet, combined with protein-rich feed and other nutrients.

Nutritional Benefits of Corn for Chickens

High Energy Content – Provides warmth, especially in winter.
Rich in Carbohydrates – Helps sustain activity levels.
Easy to Digest – Chickens can process corn efficiently.
Versatile Feed Option – Can be fed whole, cracked, or mixed with other grains.

If you are looking for yellow corn for animal feed supplier and need bulk order, then contact Agromer.

Fill out this application form to connect with an Agromer staff member who can answer all your questions about high quality yellow corn for animals, chickens, cattle, cows, sheeps, goats, deers, birds, squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits and other livestock.

Is Corn Good for Chickens?

Yes, corn is good for chickens, but it should be fed in moderation. While corn provides energy, it lacks essential proteins and vitamins, so it should be supplemented with a balanced feed.

When Should You Feed Chickens Corn?

Winter – Helps chickens stay warm due to its high-energy content.
Evening Feeding – Keeps chickens full overnight.
Occasional Treat – Should not exceed 10-20% of their daily diet.

Whole Corn vs. Cracked Corn for Chickens

Whole Corn for Chickens

Suitable for adult chickens with fully developed digestive systems.
Encourages natural pecking behavior.
Takes longer to digest but provides sustained energy.

Cracked Corn for Chickens

Easier for young and older chickens to eat.
Faster digestion compared to whole corn.
Can be mixed with other grains for a more balanced feed.

Which One is Better?

Both whole corn and cracked corn have their benefits. Whole corn is better for mature chickens, while cracked corn is easier to digest and suitable for all age groups.

Can Chickens Eat Cracked Corn?

Yes, chickens can eat cracked corn, and it is one of the most common poultry feed options. It provides quick energy and is especially useful in colder months.

Benefits of Cracked Corn for Chickens

Easier to digest than whole corn.
Can be mixed with layer feed for added nutrition.
Ideal for chicks and older hens who may struggle with whole corn.

When to Start Feeding Chickens Cracked Corn?

At 3-4 weeks old – Chicks can start eating finely cracked corn.
For adult chickens – Can be fed daily in small amounts.

Can Chickens Eat Deer Corn?

What is Deer Corn?

Deer corn is typically whole dried corn kernels, often sold for wildlife feeding. It is safe for chickens but may not be the best option because:

It is not processed for poultry feed.
May have higher moisture content, leading to mold growth.
Not enriched with additional nutrients like commercial poultry feed.

Should Chickens Eat Deer Corn?

Chickens can eat deer corn occasionally, but it should not be their primary feed. If feeding deer corn:

Ensure it is clean, mold-free, and dry.
Mix it with other grains for a balanced diet.

Should Chickens Eat Corn Every Day?

Corn should be a part of their diet but not the only feed. A well-balanced poultry diet should include:

Commercial poultry feed for essential vitamins and minerals.
Protein sources like soybean meal or mealworms.
Greens and vegetables to improve digestion.

How Much Corn Should Chickens Eat Per Day?

How Much to Feed Chickens Per Day in kg?

On average, a chicken consumes 0.12-0.15 kg of feed per day. The exact amount depends on factors such as age, breed, activity level, and weather conditions. In colder months, chickens tend to eat more to generate body heat, while in warmer seasons, their feed intake may slightly decrease. Ensuring a balanced diet with protein, vitamins, and minerals alongside corn helps maintain optimal health and egg production.

How Much to Feed Chickens Per Day in g?

In terms of grams, each chicken requires approximately 120-150 grams of feed daily. This amount is sufficient to meet their energy and nutritional needs. However, laying hens may need additional calcium sources, while broilers require a higher protein intake to support rapid growth. Dividing their feed into two daily servings—morning and evening—ensures steady energy levels and proper digestion.

Broiler Feed Consumption Per Day

Broilers have higher feed requirements due to their fast growth rate. Their daily consumption increases as they mature, reaching up to 200 grams per day in the later growth stages. Proper feeding schedules, along with high-protein supplements, ensure healthy weight gain and meat quality. Providing adequate water and monitoring their growth regularly is essential for achieving the best results in broiler farming.

Conclusion: What Corn is Best for Chickens?

Best Overall: Cracked corn – Easy to digest and ideal for all ages.
For Adult Chickens: Whole corn – Encourages natural pecking and digestion.
For Treats: Frozen corn – A great option for summer.
Occasionally: Deer corn – Safe but should not be the primary feed.

Where to Buy Quality Corn for Chickens?

If you’re searching for where to buy corn fed chicken feed, Agromer is a leading chicken feed supplier offering premium-quality yellow maize for poultry farms worldwide.

FAQs

1. Can chickens eat raw corn?

Yes, chickens can eat raw corn, including whole, cracked, or frozen corn.

2. Is cracked corn better than whole corn?

Cracked corn is easier to digest, making it ideal for all chickens, while whole corn is better for mature chickens.

3. How often should I feed chickens corn?

Corn should make up 10-20% of their daily diet and be supplemented with protein and essential nutrients.

4. Can baby chicks eat corn?

Chicks can eat finely cracked corn from 3-4 weeks old but should primarily have a balanced starter feed.

5. Is corn good for chickens in winter?

Yes, corn provides high-energy content that helps keep chickens warm during winter.

6. Can chickens eat deer corn?

Yes, but it should be clean, dry, and fed occasionally as a treat rather than a staple.

7. Where can I buy quality corn for chickens?

Agromer offers high-quality yellow maize for chickens feed, available in bulk supply for poultry farmers and distributors worldwide.

Contact Agromer today to get the best corn for chickens feed and keep your poultry healthy and thriving!

For detailed pricing and further information, you can contact Agromer chicken feed corn supplier:

Phone: +33 (0)2 47 80 23 78
Email: pthary@agromer.org