If you’re raising backyard chickens or keeping a small flock out on the farm, chicken grubs are a real game-changer when it comes to giving your birds a little extra boost. Folks who’ve been around chickens for a while know that black soldier fly larvae—often called chicken grubs—are packed with protein, calcium, and healthy fats that help keep hens healthy and productive. Especially through the colder months of January, when the ground’s frozen and natural foraging is slim pickings, tossing a handful of dried or live grubs for chickens into the run can spark a flurry of excited scratching and pecking. Not only does it provide a nutritious snack, but it also encourages your flock’s natural behaviors, keeping them active and entertained when they’re cooped up more than usual. Whether you keep a few hens for fresh eggs or manage a larger flock, grubs are a simple way to supplement their diet and help them thrive.
Chicken grubs are more than just a treat—they’re a smart addition to your feeding routine. These little larvae are especially handy during molting season, when your hens need extra protein to regrow their feathers and recover their strength. The added calcium is great for strong eggshells, which is always a plus if you’re gathering eggs for the family table. Grubs are also gentle on digestion, making them suitable for both mature hens and growing chicks who could use a nutritional leg-up. Some folks even use them as a training tool, scattering grubs to get chickens used to coming when called or to encourage shy birds to join the flock. If you’ve got kids or grandkids who love helping out in the coop, handing them a bag of grubs to toss to the chickens can be a fun way to get everyone involved and teach a little about animal care. And if you’re looking for a unique gift for a fellow chicken keeper, a bag of high-quality grubs is always appreciated—practical, thoughtful, and sure to get used.
When choosing chicken grubs, it’s worth considering whether you want dried or live grubs for chickens. Dried grubs are easy to store and serve, while live grubs can offer even more enrichment for your flock, encouraging them to hunt and scratch as they would in the wild. Either way, they’re a sustainable choice, often raised on food waste and packed with nutrients that help keep your birds healthy all year long. Just remember, grubs should be part of a balanced diet—not a full replacement for regular feed. If you’re interested in exploring more ways to boost your flock’s nutrition, check out our full range of
High Protein Chicken Treats for even more options to keep your hens happy and laying strong. Whether you’re new to chicken keeping or have been at it for decades, adding grubs to your birds’ routine is a tried-and-true way to support their health, keep them active, and maybe even earn a few extra tail wags from your feathered friends.
